Common
questions.
Answers to the questions people ask before calling. If you do not see your question here, reach out directly — I am always happy to help.
Buying
Do I need a realtor to sell my house in Texas?
You are not legally required to use a realtor to sell a home in Texas — but here is what 20 years in this market has taught me: homes sold with an experienced agent consistently sell for more, close faster, and face fewer legal headaches. I handle pricing strategy, contract negotiation, disclosures, title work, and all the legal requirements so you never have to worry about a missed deadline or an expensive mistake. When you factor in what a top agent brings to the table — sharper negotiations, professional marketing, and real market knowledge — you almost always net more money. That is not theory. That is what I have seen play out over 1,000+ transactions.
How is selling a luxury home different from a standard listing?
Selling a luxury home is a completely different game. The buyers are more selective, the marketing has to be more polished, and the strategy behind pricing and positioning is far more nuanced. A luxury property needs professional staging, high-end photography and video, targeted outreach to the right buyer pool, and a level of discretion that a standard listing does not require. I specialize in the $500K–$10M range, and I know exactly how to present and market these homes to attract qualified buyers while protecting your privacy and maximizing your return.
How do I get my closing costs paid for?
In many transactions, I negotiate for the seller to contribute toward your closing costs as part of the purchase contract. This is especially common when the market conditions favor buyers, and it is something I do regularly. Closing costs typically run 2–5% of the purchase price, but there are also lender credits, down payment assistance programs, and creative contract structures that can reduce or eliminate your out-of-pocket costs. The key is having an agent who knows how to structure the deal — and that is exactly what I do. Let us connect you with our in-house mortgage team so we can explore every option available to you.
How much is my down payment?
That depends entirely on your loan type and financial situation. Conventional loans can go as low as 3%, FHA loans require 3.5%, VA loans and USDA loans can be zero down, and jumbo loans — common in the luxury market — typically require 10–20%. Through our in-house mortgage company, we walk through every option and find the program that fits your goals. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and the worst thing you can do is assume you need 20% when there may be a better path.
Do I have to pay a down payment?
Not necessarily. VA loans and USDA loans offer zero-down-payment options, and there are Texas-specific down payment assistance programs that can help eligible buyers get into a home with little to nothing out of pocket. Even conventional loans have low-down-payment options. The first step is getting pre-approved so you know exactly where you stand. I will connect you with our in-house mortgage team — they are the best at finding creative solutions so you are not stuck thinking the only option is 20% down.
What should I do before looking to purchase a house?
Here is the short list: Get pre-approved for a mortgage first — this is non-negotiable. It tells you exactly what you can afford and shows sellers you are serious. Then define your budget, your must-haves, and your deal-breakers. Start researching neighborhoods, commute times, school districts, and local amenities. And most importantly, connect with an experienced agent who knows the area inside and out. I have been doing this in Collin County for over two decades, and the buyers who prepare upfront always end up in a better position when it is time to make an offer.
How long does it take to sell a home in Collin County?
In the current Collin County market (as of mid-2026), well-priced homes in good condition typically sell within 30–45 days. That said, the timeline depends on your home's price point, condition, location, and how it is marketed. A properly priced, professionally marketed home in a desirable area like McKinney, Frisco, or Prosper can move faster. I give you a realistic timeline upfront and adjust strategy as needed — no guesswork, no surprises.
What makes Collin County a great place to live?
Collin County is one of the fastest-growing regions in the entire country, and for good reason. The population has grown to nearly 1.3 million residents, driven by a booming economy with major corporate campuses, top-ranked school districts like Allen ISD and McKinney ISD, and a quality of life that is hard to match. You get access to excellent parks, dining, shopping, and cultural amenities while still having a sense of community. Collin County is projected to produce 10% of Texas's total GDP by 2050 — this is not just a great place to live, it is a great place to invest.
Should I buy new construction or an existing home?
It depends on your priorities. New construction gives you modern finishes, builder warranties, energy efficiency, and the ability to customize — but it often comes at a premium and may be located in developing areas where schools and amenities are still catching up. Existing homes offer established neighborhoods, mature landscaping, and sometimes more square footage for the price. The real answer is: it depends on your timeline, budget, and lifestyle. I have deep relationships with builders across Collin County and know every community inside and out, so I can help you make the right call for your situation.
What should I know about the Collin County real estate market in 2026?
The Collin County market in 2026 has shifted. Inventory is up, which means buyers have more options and more negotiating power than they have had in several years. Median home prices have softened slightly — down roughly 5–7% year-over-year in some areas — which is creating opportunities for both buyers and sellers who price strategically. Days on market are longer than the frenzied pace of 2021–2022, hovering around 30–45 days for well-priced homes. The key takeaway: this is a market that rewards preparation, accurate pricing, and experienced representation. That is exactly where I come in.
Selling
How do I prepare my home before putting it on the market?
Preparation is everything. Start with a deep clean and declutter — remove personal items and create a neutral canvas. Address deferred maintenance: fix leaky faucets, touch up paint, and make sure everything is in working order. Consider professional staging, which can increase your sale price and shorten time on market. I also recommend investing in professional photography and video — first impressions happen online now. Before you do any of that, call me. I walk through your home, give you a prioritized list of what will actually move the needle, and make sure we are not wasting money on improvements that will not pay off.
Can I buy a home while selling my current one?
Absolutely — and I do this all the time. The most common approach is a contingent offer, where your purchase is conditioned on the sale of your current home. I can also help you explore bridge financing, temporary rental arrangements, or timing strategies that allow you to buy and sell smoothly. The key is having an agent who can coordinate both transactions and keep everything on track. With over 20 years of experience and 1,000+ transactions, this is one of the things my team handles best.
Still have
questions?
I am always happy to chat. No pressure, no obligation — just honest answers from someone who knows the market inside and out.