by PJ Burns | Dec 21, 2025 | Buyer, Closing and Title, Phase 5: Contract to Close
A property survey is one of those line items that often gets questioned late in the buying process. It is not flashy, it does not improve the house, and it is easy to see it as just another closing cost. Many buyers assume it is optional and wonder whether it is...
by PJ Burns | Dec 7, 2025 | Buyer, Financing, Offers and Negotiation, Phase 4: Making an Offer
Seller concessions are one of the most misunderstood parts of a real estate transaction. Many buyers assume they’re a discount, a last-ditch request, or something that automatically weakens an offer. In reality, seller concessions are a negotiation lever, especially...
by PJ Burns | Nov 23, 2025 | Buyer, Inspections, Phase 4: Making an Offer
A home inspection is not required when buying a home, but in a buyer-beware state like Virginia, it is one of the most important steps in the homebuying process. For many buyers, the inspection is also the most stressful part of the transaction, largely because the...
by PJ Burns | Nov 9, 2025 | Buyer, Inspections, Phase 4: Making an Offer
If you’ve been through a home inspection or even just started shopping for a house, you’ve probably heard radon mentioned at some point. It’s one of those things that sounds a little scary and a little mysterious, mostly because you can’t see, smell, or taste it. But...
by PJ Burns | Oct 26, 2025 | Buyer, Financing, Phase 2: Working with a Lender
One of the most common questions buyers ask is, “When should I start shopping for a mortgage?” Most people assume shopping means calling every bank they can find as early as possible. In reality, that approach usually creates confusion, delays, and involves...
