Neighbors & Associates, Inc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you're buying your first home or selling after decades, we have answers to the questions we hear most.
Getting started
The best first step is to contact a real estate agent and get pre-approved for a mortgage. A pre-approval letter tells you exactly how much you can afford and makes your offers much more competitive — especially in active markets like Harnett, Johnston, and Wake County. From there, your agent will help you identify homes that match your goals, schedule showings, and guide you through the entire process.
While it is not required, we strongly recommend getting pre-approved before you begin your search. In today's market, homes can receive multiple offers quickly. Sellers take buyers with pre-approval letters much more seriously, and it gives you a clear picture of your budget so you don't fall in love with a home outside your range.
It depends on the type of loan you qualify for. Conventional loans typically require 3–20% down. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down and are popular with first-time buyers. VA loans (for veterans and active military) and USDA loans (for eligible rural areas) can require zero down payment. Your lender will walk you through which option makes the most sense for your situation.
Pre-qualification is a quick, informal estimate of what you may be able to borrow based on basic financial information you provide. Pre-approval is a more thorough process where the lender verifies your income, credit, and assets and issues a formal letter stating how much they will lend you. Pre-approval carries far more weight with sellers and is what we recommend before making offers.
Making an offer
Your agent will prepare a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) — a review of recent sales of similar homes in the same area. This helps establish fair market value so you can make an informed, competitive offer. In a seller's market you may need to offer at or above asking price. In a slower market there may be room to negotiate. Your agent will advise you based on current conditions.
Once your offer is accepted, you enter the due diligence period. During this time you will schedule a home inspection, finalize your mortgage, and complete an appraisal. Your agent will track all deadlines and coordinate with the listing agent, lender, and closing attorney. The process typically takes 30–45 days from accepted offer to closing day.
Closing costs are fees paid at the end of a real estate transaction. For buyers, they typically range from 2–5% of the purchase price and can include lender fees, title insurance, attorney fees, property taxes, and homeowner's insurance. Your lender is required to provide a Loan Estimate early in the process so you know what to expect well before closing day.
In most transactions, the seller has historically paid both the buyer's and seller's agent commissions. However, following recent industry changes, buyers are now required to sign a Buyer's Agency Agreement that outlines the agent's compensation. In many cases the seller still covers this, but it is important to discuss and understand the agreement with your agent upfront. We are always transparent about compensation before you commit to anything.
Preparing to sell
The most accurate way to find out is to request a free Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) from a local agent. We review recent sales of comparable homes in your neighborhood, current market conditions, and the unique features of your property to give you a realistic price range. Online estimator tools can give a rough ballpark but are often inaccurate — a local expert who knows your specific neighborhood will always be more reliable.
First impressions matter enormously. We recommend decluttering, deep cleaning, handling any minor repairs (leaky faucets, scuffed paint, broken fixtures), and improving curb appeal. Professional photography is included in our marketing plan and great photos start online — where most buyers begin their search. We will walk through your home with you and give specific recommendations before you go on the market.
It depends on your price, condition, location, and current market conditions. In active markets like the Triangle and surrounding counties, well-priced homes in good condition can sell in days or weeks. Homes that are overpriced or need significant work typically take longer. Your agent will give you a realistic timeline based on what is actually happening in your specific market right now.
The selling process
Our marketing goes well beyond just putting a sign in the yard. Your home will be listed on the MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com, and dozens of other real estate sites. We use professional photography, detailed property descriptions, and targeted digital marketing to reach the right buyers. We also leverage our network of agents and past clients to spread the word before your home even hits the market.
Absolutely not. You are never obligated to accept any offer. You can accept, reject, or counter any offer you receive. Your agent will help you evaluate each offer carefully — not just the price, but the terms, financing, contingencies, and closing timeline — so you can make the best decision for your situation.
Sellers typically pay real estate agent commissions, attorney fees, any agreed-upon repairs from the inspection, and potentially a portion of the buyer's closing costs if negotiated. You will also pay off your remaining mortgage balance from the proceeds. Your agent will provide you with a net sheet — an estimate of what you will walk away with — before you ever list your home.
North Carolina uses a unique due diligence process. When a buyer makes an offer, they pay a due diligence fee directly to the seller. During the due diligence period (typically 2–4 weeks), the buyer has the right to inspect the property and back out for any reason — but the seller keeps the due diligence fee if they do. This system generally favors sellers and gives you more certainty that serious buyers won't walk away without consequence.
Working with our team
We serve Johnston County, Harnett County, and Wake County in North Carolina. Our team has deep roots in this region and knows the neighborhoods, schools, and local market conditions that matter most to buyers and sellers in each area. If you are not sure whether we cover your location, give us a call — we are happy to help or connect you with the right resource.
Look for an agent with local market knowledge, strong communication skills, and a track record of results in your area. Ask how many transactions they have completed recently, how they will market your home or find you properties, and how accessible they will be throughout the process. Reading client reviews is also a great way to understand what the experience of working with them is actually like.
Yes, and this is actually one of the most common situations we help clients navigate. Coordinating the sale of your current home with the purchase of a new one requires careful timing and planning. We will work with you to align both transactions as smoothly as possible, whether that means negotiating a flexible closing date, arranging a temporary rental, or exploring bridge financing options.
The right time depends on your personal circumstances more than market timing. The best time to buy is when you are financially ready, have a stable income, and plan to stay in the home for at least a few years. The best time to sell is when you are ready for the next chapter and your home is in a condition to attract strong offers. Our team can give you an honest assessment of current local market conditions to help you make the decision that is right for you.
Yes! In addition to buying and selling, Neighbors & Associates also offers property management and rental services through our sister company. Whether you are an investor looking for rental properties or a homeowner who wants to rent your home, we have the expertise to help. Visit our rentals page or contact us for more details.
The easiest way is to reach out through our Connect page, give us a call at (919) 701-2854, or stop by our office at 104 E Main St, Benson, NC 27504. We will match you with the agent who is the best fit for your needs and get you started with a no-obligation consultation. There is no pressure — just a conversation about your goals and how we can help.
Still have questions?
Our team is ready to help. Reach out and we will get back to you quickly.
