Homebuyer FAQs

Earnest money is a deposit showing you're serious. It’s usually 1–3% of the purchase price. It’s refundable if you back out for a valid reason (like inspection issues or financing problems).

We provide information about the location of each property, including nearby schools, parks, and amenities, to help you make an informed decision.

Most lenders recommend spending no more than 28–30% of your gross monthly income on housing. A mortgage pre-approval will give you a clearer budget based on your credit, income, and debt.

• Prince George’s County: Median home prices hover around $375K–$450K.
• Anne Arundel County: Expect $450K–$550K depending on proximity to Annapolis or the Bay.
• Montgomery County: One of the priciest in MD, with homes often starting around $500K–$700K.

💡 Tip: Get pre-approved early to understand your true budget and strengthen your offer

Closing costs include lender fees, title insurance, taxes, and more. Expect to pay 2–5% of the home’s purchase price.

Yes! Maryland offers several:

• Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP): Includes down payment assistance and preferred interest rates.
• SmartBuy 3.0: Helps pay off student debt while buying a home.
• County-specific grants: PG County’s “Pathway to Purchase” offers up to $10K; Montgomery County has closing cost assistance.

• PG County: More affordable, popular with commuters to D.C.
• Anne Arundel: Mid-range, with great access to water and military bases.
• Montgomery: Higher cost of living, but excellent schools and public transit.

Montgomery & Anne Arundel: Still competitive, especially near metro stations or waterfronts.

• PG County: More inventory, but homes near D.C. border go fast.

📊 Homes often receive multiple offers—having a strong agent and pre-approval is key.

PG County: ~1.2% of assessed value

• Anne Arundel: ~1.1%
• Montgomery: ~1.0%

🧾 Taxes vary by municipality, so check local rates before finalizing your budget.

Yes. A home inspection is crucial—especially in older areas like Bowie, Glen Burnie, or Silver Spring. Inspections can reveal issues with plumbing, roofing, or foundations that aren’t obvious during a tour.

Expect 2–5% of the purchase price. This includes:

• Title fees
• Transfer taxes
• Lender fees
• Escrow deposits

🎯 Some counties split transfer taxes between buyer and seller—your agent will help negotiate.

Usually 30–45 days, but it can be quicker with cash or longer if repairs are needed. PG County sometimes has longer timelines due to grant processing.

• PG County: Brandywine, Upper Marlboro, Hyattsville
• Anne Arundel: Pasadena, Severn, Glen Burnie
• Montgomery: Wheaton, Gaithersburg, Germantown

🏘️ These areas offer a mix of affordability, amenities, and access to major highways or transit.

Yes! Many lenders work with buyers who have student debt. Credit scores of 620+ can qualify for FHA loans, and Maryland programs may help offset debt.