FAQs
Do I REALLY need a REALTOR® to buy or sell?
Short answer: No. Smart answer: Yes.
While it’s legal to buy or sell without a REALTOR®, it's like going to court without a lawyer. You can do it, but should you? There isn't another professional that can or will handle the hundreds of tasks and daily transaction oversight provided by a REALTOR®. And Michael is the one to help you avoid costly mistakes, negotiate better deals, handle contracts, inspections, appraisals, and get the job done right — with less stress and more money in your pocket. Michael doesn’t just list homes—he builds strategies to help you win.
How much is my home worth right now?
That depends on recent sales, your home’s condition, location, and current market trends. Home values change quickly, and automated estimates like Zillow often miss the mark. Michael offers free home valuation reports — no pressure, no obligations. Just click HERE to request your custom analysis!
Should I be pre-approved BEFORE seeing homes?
Yes — 100%. Pre-approval helps you know your budget, strengthens your offer, and shows sellers you’re serious. In today’s competitive market, it’s often the difference between winning and losing the home of your choice. Your pre-approval will often be valid for 30-90 days depending on the lender, and it can always be updated if it expires.
Case scenario- Buyer 1 start's seeing homes as they are "just shopping." They quickly fall in love with the "perfect" home but haven't yet been pre-approved. They contact their preferred lender and are told they should receive a pre-approval in 1-2 days. During that time, Buyer 2 (who is equipped with a pre-approval in-hand) sees the same house and also falls hard. They submit their offer to the Seller (along with their pre-approval) within a couple hours. The seller, ecstatic for the strong, pre-approved offer, without a second thought, accepts the offer from Buyer 2. Buyer 1 is left empty handed. Don't be Buyer 1.
What are your compensation rates?
Agent compensation is always negotiable and varies based on property value, market conditions, and the level of service provided. Traditionally, Sellers often covered both their agent’s and the Buyer’s agent’s compensation to maximize exposure. That practice still exists, but it’s no longer assumed. Following the 2024 NAR settlement, Indiana requires by law that Buyers now establish a written agreement with their own agent outlining their specific compensation upfront, PRIOR to the agent providing any client services (which includes showing homes). When making an offer, a Buyer can ask the Seller to cover the Buyer Agent’s compensation as part of the terms—just like any other negotiable item in the deal—if that's the best strategy for their situation. If a Seller chooses not to cover it, the Buyer and their agent will have a clear discussion about their options and next steps so there are no surprises.
Michael ensures you fully understand this process up front so there aren't any surprises. Transparency and communication is at the heart of every deal he takes on, and he understands how important it is to keep you informed during the largest sale or purchase of your life.
What’s the first step to buying a home?
Step one is a quick conversation with Michael. You’ll discuss goals, timeline, and budget. Then he’ll connect you with a trusted lender for pre-approval, and you’re off! He’ll be there to guide you through every step — from showings to closing day.
How long does it take to buy or sell a home?
Most buyers find and close on a home in 30–60 days after getting pre-approved. Sellers in Northwest Indiana can expect to go from list to close in 45–75 days depending on pricing and market conditions. I’ll walk you through timelines upfront so there are no surprises.
Can you help me sell and buy at the same time?
Absolutely. Many of our clients sell their current home while buying their next. Michael will help you time both transactions, use contingency strategies, and keep everything moving smoothly — so you’re never stuck without a plan.
What’s included when you list my home?
Every listing includes:
- Pro photography & aerial drone shots
- Floor plan diagrams
- Full home video tour
- Strategic online and social media marketing
- Listing on all major platforms
- Listing Leaders vast network exposure of over 600 agents across Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan
- REALTOR® network exposure
- Staging tips, pricing strategy, and open houses as needed
- Scheduling and managing showings for potential buyers
- Top-level negotiation with other agents/vendors
- Contract Management: Ensuring all necessary documentation is completed correctly
- Addressing Inspection responses and coordinating necessary repairs
- Assistance in removing title encumbrances or any requests made by the Title Company
- Collaboration with all of the other parties involved in the transaction, such as the buyer's agents, transaction coordinators, loan agent, contractors, city/town or county government, etc.
- Monitoring and managing contract contingencies
- Coordinating the final steps to ensure a smooth closing, including scheduling and the transfer of funds and keys
- Regular follow-up after the sale
These are just some of the items that will be handled while you sit back with the confidence that your deal is being handled by an MVP PRO. Michael lives in your transaction every day throughout the process to ensure your success!
What should I do before listing my house?
You'll start with a walkthrough with Michael at your listing presentation. He’ll help you spot quick fixes, provide decluttering tips, and suggest updates that actually add value. He’ll also help you price strategically based on your home’s condition and local comps.
Is now a good time to buy?
Yes — for most people — and here’s why: Rates fluctuate, but Michael and his preferred lenders are experienced in helping find creative ways to reduce up front costs and/or mortgage rates to reduce your payments and customize a unique plan tailored to your goals.
Most people don't know that the average interest rates over the past 50 years have been almost 8%, and the highest interest rates reached almost 19%!! The times of 2, 3, and 4 percent interest rates were certainly abnormal and economists and financial gurus have zero expectation that we will see those rates again pending an unforeseen monumental political or economic event. While you're "waiting" for a specific rate, homeowners are increasing their equity and growing their investment by thousands of dollars each year.
Michael and his lender partners track the market daily as part of their preparation to provide you with highest service and keep costs as low as possible. You can take that to the bank!
Is now a good time to sell?
Good news! Despite what you may hear on a macro-level, here in the region, we're still buying and selling houses like crazy. Our market is as strong as ever, especially for Sellers! Due to having a very low inventory of homes, buyers are crawling over each other to get those prepared and well-maintained homes under contract. Michael's clients often sell for full-price, or even higher!
That said, let's be honest.. Sometimes it just doesn't make sense to sell depending on a homeowner's unique situation and specific goals. Michael isn't motivated by just getting your listing — he wants to ensure he provides professionalism, knowledge, and expertise to so he will become a trusted partner in your real estate and financial success. He's in it for the long haul. Therefore, if it just doesn't make sense at the moment, he'll let you know that as well.
Do you work with first-time buyers?
We sure do — we love helping our first-time buyers! From understanding loan options to explaining every contract, Michael will make sure you feel confident and supported through the entire process. No question is too small — he's got your back!
What loan types do I qualify for?
That depends on your income, credit score, job history, and other factors. Michael works closely with your preferred lender or his to offer FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional, Non-Conventional, and Non-Traditional loan options — and we’ll help you choose the best one for your needs.
How do showings work? Do I need to leave my home?
For sellers: Showings are scheduled in advance and I’ll guide you on prepping your home. Yes, it’s ideal to leave during showings so buyers can picture themselves living there without the added stress of the perception of being overheard or monitored in a private decision-making process. REALTORS® are typically very well-equipped with information from MIchael about your property, and they're held to extensive legal and ethical standards when showing houses to ensure the safety of your property and everyone involved.
While Buyer agents are typically the one to show your home to their own Buyer clients, Michael's attendance at your home's showings would certainly be provided for specialized or high-value listings where additional expertise and direct involvement can add significant value.
For buyers: I’ll set up private tours that fit your schedule in consideration of your time's value— no awkward group tours unless it’s an open house.
Do you offer any programs for first responders or public service professionals?
Absolutely! As a former public servant himself, supporting police, fire, EMS, healthcare professionals, educators, and veterans is personal for Michael. He offer priority scheduling, lower compensation packages, specialized guidance, and connections to public servant-friendly loan programs and benefits.
Thank you for your service to our communities and this great nation. We appreciate you.
