If you're thinking about buying or selling a home, chances are, you've already turned to Google with a long list of questions. From figuring out what you can afford to understanding how to make a great offer, the process can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re navigating it for the first time. But you’re not alone. Every month, thousands of people search for answers to the same real estate questions you’re asking right now.

This guide pulls together the most commonly Googled questions about real estate — and answers them with clear insights you can actually use. Whether you're looking to buy your dream property, sell your current one, or just want to better understand the process, you'll walk away feeling more prepared, more confident, and more in control of your next move.

The very first step in buying a home is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. It’s tempting to jump right into open houses and scroll through listings, but without a pre-approval in hand, you’re essentially shopping without a budget. A pre-approval means that a lender has evaluated your financial situation — including your income, credit history, and debt — and is willing to lend you a specific amount. This letter not only defines your price range but also makes you more competitive when you find a property you love. Sellers are far more likely to take your offer seriously if they know you’ve already taken this crucial financial step. Plus, it gives you a chance to fix any potential issues before they become deal-breakers.

The short answer is: it depends. The long answer? While 20 percent is often cited as the ideal down payment, you may not need to put down that much. Many buyers use conventional loans with 5 to 10 percent down, and government-backed loans like FHA loans require as little as 3.5 percent. Veterans might even qualify for loans that require zero down.

However, keep in mind that the less you put down upfront, the more you may pay in private mortgage insurance (PMI) and long-term interest. Don’t forget to factor in closing costs as well, which typically add another 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price. You’ll also want to have money set aside for inspections, moving costs, immediate repairs, and ongoing maintenance. The more you save upfront, the more flexibility and peace of mind you’ll have throughout the process.

Many buyers start the process with a number in their head based on what they think they can afford, but affordability isn’t just about how much house you can technically qualify for — it’s about how much you can comfortably pay month after month without stretching your budget too thin.

Lenders look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), which compares your monthly debt payments to your gross income. Most prefer a DTI of 36 percent or less, although some will approve higher ratios, depending on your credit score and income stability. You’ll also need to account for property taxes, insurance, homeowners association fees, and maintenance costs. Your trusted real estate agent and mortgage lender will help you run the numbers so that you’re shopping within a range that supports your financial goals, not just your loan limits.

The timeline to buy a home can vary depending on your market, lender, and personal preferences. On average, it takes 30 to 60 days to close after your offer is accepted. However, if you’re just starting your search, the full journey — from browsing listings to getting the keys — can take several months. Factors like the availability of homes in your price range, how quickly you can view properties, the features you’re looking for, and how competitive the market is all play a role. You’ll also need to allow time for inspections, appraisals, and loan approval. Delays can sometimes happen, but a proactive real estate agent can help keep everything on schedule by coordinating communication and flagging issues before they become roadblocks.

When a home is under contract, it means that the buyer and seller have signed a purchase agreement, but the deal isn’t final yet. During this phase, the buyer typically arranges inspections, the lender orders an appraisal, and both parties work through any agreed-upon contingencies. These may include financing, appraisal thresholds, or repair negotiations. Although the home is effectively off the market, deals can still fall apart if problems arise. If you’re a buyer, this is your window to undergo due diligence and ensure that the home meets your expectations. If you’re a seller, this is when you keep things moving smoothly by providing various documents and responding to repair requests as needed.

Preparing your home for sale starts with creating an inviting, move-in ready space. Start by decluttering the property; remove personal items, excess furniture, and anything that could distract buyers. Deep clean every room, touch up the paint on the walls, and take care of minor repairs like leaky faucets or squeaky doors.

Curb appeal also matters immensely, so invest in fresh mulch, trimmed hedges, and a clean entryway. Consider staging to highlight your home’s layout and features. Professional photography is essential — most buyers begin their search online, and high-quality images can dramatically increase showings. Your real estate agent will guide you through this process, recommending cost-effective improvements that will make the most remarkable impact.

Ultimately, buying or selling a home involves a series of major decisions and important questions. Whether you’re making your first move or your fifth, understanding the answers to these questions empowers you to take the right steps with confidence.

Thankfully, you don’t have to navigate it all alone. For answers to all your most important questions as you buy or sell a home in Paradise Valley, team up with Mary Chen. With the right guidance and preparation, your next move can be your best one yet.