Free Guides
Buyer & Seller Guides

FREE Home Buying & Selling Guides | Gerald Lawrence REALTOR®

FREE Home Buying & Selling Guides

Get expert insights and comprehensive guides to navigate your real estate journey with confidence. Download our professional guides used by hundreds of successful clients.

Get Your FREE Guides Now!

Your Complete Real Estate Resource Library

????
Complete Homebuyer's Guide
???? Chapter 1: Getting Started
✓ Pre-Approval Process
Learn exactly what documents you need and how to get pre-approved fast...

✓ Budget Planning Worksheet
Calculate your true affordability including hidden costs most buyers miss...

✓ Neighborhood Research Checklist
Discover the 15 key factors that determine long-term property value...
???? Chapter 3: Home Inspection Secrets
Red Flags Checklist: Foundation issues, electrical problems, plumbing concerns, HVAC systems, roof conditions, and more. Know what to look for and what questions to ask during your walkthrough.
Download FREE Guide
????
Complete Homeseller's Guide
???? Chapter 2: Pricing Strategy
✓ Market Analysis Template
Compare your home to recent sales and active listings in your area...

✓ Pricing Psychology
Why $299,900 sells faster than $300,000 - proven pricing strategies...

✓ Timing the Market
Best months to list, seasonal trends, and market cycle analysis...
✨ Chapter 4: Staging Secrets
Room-by-Room Staging Guide: Transform each space to appeal to buyers. Includes furniture placement, color schemes, lighting tips, and decluttering strategies that can increase your home's value by 6-10%.
Download FREE Guide

What Every Homebuyer Should Know

???? Financial Preparation

  • Credit score requirements and improvement strategies
  • Down payment options (including 3% down programs)
  • Debt-to-income ratio calculations
  • Pre-approval vs. pre-qualification differences
  • Closing cost estimates and who pays what
  • Emergency fund recommendations

???? House Hunting Strategy

  • Must-have vs. nice-to-have feature prioritization
  • School district research and ratings
  • Commute time and transportation analysis
  • Future development and zoning considerations
  • Home inspection contingencies and timelines
  • Appraisal process and potential issues

???? Legal & Documentation

  • Purchase agreement terms and conditions
  • Title insurance and property deed transfers
  • HOA rules, fees, and regulations
  • Property tax assessments and exemptions
  • Homeowner's insurance requirements
  • Final walkthrough checklist

???? Post-Purchase Planning

  • Moving timeline and logistics coordination
  • Utility transfers and service connections
  • Home warranty options and coverage
  • Maintenance schedule and seasonal tasks
  • Property value protection strategies
  • Refinancing opportunities and timing

Home Buying Process Timeline

Typical 30-60 Day Buying Process
1
Get Pre-Approved
(1-3 days)
2
House Hunting
(1-8 weeks)
3
Make Offer
(1-3 days)
4
Home Inspection
(7-10 days)
5
Appraisal
(7-14 days)
6
Final Approval
(7-14 days)
7
Closing
(1 day)

What Every Homeseller Should Know

???? Pricing & Market Analysis

  • Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) interpretation
  • Seasonal market trends and timing strategies
  • Days on market expectations by price range
  • Price reduction strategies and timing
  • Market conditions impact on pricing
  • Overpricing consequences and market perception

???? Property Preparation

  • Cost-effective improvements with highest ROI
  • Professional staging vs. DIY staging
  • Curb appeal enhancement strategies
  • Deep cleaning and decluttering guidelines
  • Minor repairs that make major differences
  • Professional photography importance

???? Marketing & Exposure

  • MLS listing optimization and keywords
  • Online marketing platforms and reach
  • Social media marketing strategies
  • Open house vs. private showing strategies
  • Virtual tour and video marketing benefits
  • Target buyer demographic identification

???? Negotiation & Closing

  • Offer evaluation and counteroffer strategies
  • Contingency management and timelines
  • Inspection negotiation and repair credits
  • Closing cost negotiations and concessions
  • Multiple offer situations and best practices
  • Backup offer strategies and benefits
Typical Selling Costs Breakdown
Cost Category Typical Range Who Pays Example ($400K home)
Real Estate Commission 5-6% of sale price Seller $20,000 - $24,000
Title Insurance $500 - $2,000 Negotiable $800 - $1,200
Attorney/Escrow Fees $500 - $1,500 Both parties $750 - $1,000
Transfer Taxes 0.1% - 2% of sale price Varies by state $400 - $8,000
Home Repairs/Concessions 1-3% of sale price Seller $4,000 - $12,000
Staging/Marketing $1,000 - $5,000 Seller $2,000 - $3,000

Ready to Start Your Real Estate Journey?

Get your FREE comprehensive guides and connect with an experienced REALTOR® who will guide you through every step of the process.

Contact Gerald Lawrence Today!

© 2025 Gerald Lawrence, REALTOR®. All rights reserved. | Licensed Real Estate Professional

The information provided is for educational purposes. Consult with a qualified REALTOR® for personalized advice.