When buying a home, or selling a home, especially in Johnston County, having the right real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. Knowing the right questions to ask your agent will ensure you’re informed and confident throughout the process. Here are five essential questions Johnston County home buyers should ask their real estate agent before making that big purchase.
1. What’s Your Experience with Johnston County Real Estate?
Local expertise and market knowledge is crucial when buying a home in Johnston County. Ask your agent about their knowledge of the area, including schools, neighborhoods, and market trends. A Johnston County real estate agent with experience will have insights on the local and the national market that can help you find the right home and negotiate effectively.
Key Follow-Up Question: Can you provide examples of new and used homes you’ve sold or helped buyers purchase in the area?
2. What’s the Current Market Like for Johnston County?
The housing market can vary greatly depending on location, price point, and timing. Your RiverWILD real estate agent should be able to explain whether Johnston County is currently a buyer’s, a seller’s market or a neutral market and what that means for you.
Here’s a hint… the current market as it stands onJanuary 20, 2025 favors home sellers due to less homes for sale. Understanding inventory levels, price trends, and competition will help you strategize your home purchase.
Pro Tip: A well-informed agent will also discuss seasonal trends specific to Johnston County real estate.
3. What Costs Should I Be Prepared For?
Beyond the home’s purchase price, there are additional costs to consider, such as closing costs, inspections, HOA Fees, and homeowner’s insurance. A good agent will provide a clear breakdown of these expenses so you’re not caught off guard. Johnston County real estate agents, the RiverWILD Team have relationships with local lenders and can help you estimate these costs.
Speaking of closing costs, be sure to ask one of our RiverWILD REALTORS® about the current home builder incentive!
Ask This Too: Do you have any recommendations for local directory of service providers like inspectors or contractors?
4. How Will You Communicate with Me?
Buying a home is a big decision, and communication is key. Ask your agent how often they’ll provide updates and which methods they prefer, whether it’s phone calls, emails, or text messages. Clear communication ensures you’re always in the loop.
Why It Matters: Johnston County home buyers often face fast-moving market conditions. Timely updates from your agent will be the difference between landing your dream home and missing out.
5. Why is it Getting More Difficult to Find and Buy a Home Without an HOA?
In North Carolina, all new subdivisions with 20 or more new homes must include a Homeowners Association (HOA). This rule implemented in the late 1980’s has made it increasingly challenging to find homes without an HOA. Ask your agent about navigating this trend and whether older neighborhoods or smaller developments might offer HOA-free options. Understanding the pros and cons of HOA communities is essential for making the right choice for your lifestyle and budget.
Your agent should be equipped to advise both the pros and the cons to living in a community with and without an HOA.
Pro Tip: Your agent can help point you to homes for sale without an HOA as well as provide HOA resources like policies and information on fees that align with your preferences.
Bonus Question. What About an Agent’s Ratings and Reviews?
One of the smart ways buyers and sellers select their agents is by vetting an agent’s ratings and reviews as well as referrals from people you know. This way you select the very best agent.
Pro Tip: Take a look each agent or team’s Google My Business profile and ensure they are highly rated based on previous clients feedback.
What About Your Questions?
What questions would you ask our team of real estate agents? Share your thoughts in the comments below! If you’d like more information on any of these topics, or if you’re ready to begin your home-buying journey, reach out to the RiverWILD Real Estate Team. We’re here to help Johnston County home buyers and sellers navigate the real estate market with confidence.
Let’s find your new home together!