Real Estate FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Buying or selling a home can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. At Shirin Marvi Real Estate, we believe in making the process clear, simple, and empowering. Below are answers to the most common questions we hear from our clients.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

What does a real estate agent do?
A real estate agent guides you through every step of buying or selling a home—from marketing and negotiations to contracts and closing—ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience. Same with buying/selling your commercial property, investments or helping you rent.

How do I choose the right agent?

Look for an agent who is knowledgeable, communicative, experienced, and aligned with your goals. Trust and connection matter.

What’s the difference between a buyer’s and seller’s agent?
A buyer’s agent represents your interests in purchasing a home. A seller’s agent helps you list, market, and sell your home for the best return.

FOR BUYERS

What’s the first step in buying a home?
Get your financing in place.

• For mortgage buyers – Start by getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This helps define your budget and strengthens your offer.
• For Cash Buyers – Analyze where the funding is coming from (savings, 401k, investments, stock, private lending, family etc) and make sure the funding is in place and readily available .

How much can I afford?

This depends on your income, debt, credit score, and down payment.
If purchasing with a mortgage, A lender can help you assess your true buying power.
For Cash buyers it is what cash you have assigned for this purchase.

What are closing costs?

Closing costs include taxes, fees, and services—typically 2–5% of the purchase price. We’ll walk you through them with the help of your attorney and lender.

How long does the home buying process take?

Usually 30–60 days, depending on your financing, inspections, and negotiations.

Can I buy a home while selling my current one?

Yes, and I’ll help coordinate both timelines to reduce stress and risk.

FOR SELLERS

How do I get my home ready to sell?
Start with cleaning, decluttering, and minor repairs. I’ll guide you through professional staging, and presentation.

How is the list price determined?
I use a detailed Comparative Market Analysis to price your home competitively based on current market trends and recent sales. Adding the personalized version of the upgrades that may have been done, and any other information you provide with regards to the property.

Should I make upgrades before listing?
Simple improvements like fresh paint or updated fixtures can make a big difference. I’ll advise you on what’s worth it.

What is home staging?
Staging highlights your home’s best features and helps buyers imagine living there. Staged homes often sell faster and for more money.

MARKET & LEGAL QUESTIONS

What is a contingency?
A contingency is a condition in the contract—such as financing or inspection—that must be met for the sale to proceed.

What happens during a home inspection?
A licensed inspector reviews the condition of the home, identifying issues that may need repair or negotiation.

What is an appraisal?
An appraisal is a professional evaluation of the property’s market value, usually ordered by the buyer’s lender.

How is the market right now?
Markets shift often. Contact me for a custom market report tailored to your neighborhood.

ABOUT WORKING WITH ME

What areas do you serve?

• I serve the Greater Chicagoland area.
• I am licensed as a Realtor in Illinois
• I am also licensed as a commercial broker in Illinois

Do you help first-time buyers?
Yes! I provide patient, step-by-step guidance for first-time buyers, ensuring you feel confident and supported.

Do you offer remote or virtual services?
Absolutely. I provide virtual showings, electronic document signing, and online consultations for clients near and far.

How do I get started?
Reach out today!
Call me at (847) 269-1069,
email shirinmarvirealestate@gmail.com, or visit www.ShirinMarvi.com

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, I’m here to help. Let’s talk about your goals and how I can support you.