FAQ
Answers to the questions people ask before calling.
Buying a Home
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan program. Conventional loans can be as low as 3% down, FHA loans require 3.5%, VA loans offer 0% down for eligible military buyers, and USDA loans also offer 0% down in eligible areas. Jonathan can walk you through which option fits your situation.
How much are closing costs?
Closing costs typically run 2% to 5% of the purchase price. This includes lender fees, title insurance, escrow deposits, and prepaid items like homeowners insurance and property taxes. We review your estimate line by line so you know exactly what you are paying.
Is there down payment assistance available?
Yes. Texas has several programs including the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) grants and second liens, the TDHCA My First Texas Home program, and various local assistance programs. Jonathan, as a dual-licensed MLO, can help you determine eligibility.
What credit score do I need to buy a house in Texas?
It depends on the loan program. FHA loans accept scores as low as 580 (or 500 with 10% down). Conventional loans typically require 620+. VA loans have no VA minimum but most lenders require 620+. USDA loans usually need 640+.
How long does the buying process take?
From pre-approval to closing, most transactions take 30 to 45 days once you are under contract. Finding the right home can take a few weeks or a few months depending on the market and your timeline.
Selling Your Home
How do I know what my home is worth?
We run a Comparative Market Analysis using recent sales, active listings, and market trends in your specific neighborhood. We give you a realistic number, not an inflated one designed to win your listing.
Should I make repairs before listing?
Not every repair makes sense. We help you identify the updates that actually increase your sale price versus the ones that cost more than they return. Sometimes a clean, well-staged home outperforms a renovated one.
How long will it take to sell?
In the current San Antonio market, homes typically sell within 47 to 75 days, depending on price, condition, and location. Properly priced homes in desirable areas sell faster.
What are the costs of selling?
Typical costs include agent commissions, title fees, and any outstanding liens or mortgage payoffs. We provide a full net proceeds estimate before you list so there are no surprises.
VA Loans & Military
How do I use a VA loan in San Antonio?
You need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA, a VA-approved lender, and a licensed real estate agent familiar with VA guidelines. Jonathan is a dual-licensed MLO who processes VA loans regularly, so everything moves together seamlessly.
What is the VA funding fee?
The VA funding fee ranges from 0.5% to 3.3% of the loan amount, depending on whether it is your first use and how much down payment you put down. The fee is waived for veterans with service-connected disabilities. It can be financed into the loan.
Can I buy a home before my PCS move?
Yes. Many military families buy before they arrive using virtual tours and electronic signatures. We handle the entire process remotely if needed and coordinate closing on your timeline.
Which neighborhoods are best near JBSA bases?
Cibolo and Schertz are close to JBSA-Randolph. Helotes and the west side offer access to JBSA-Lackland. The Stone Oak and north-side areas provide a central commute to multiple bases. We will match you with the right area based on your base, family, and priorities.
General
What makes Jonathan and Naomi different from other agents?
Jonathan is dual-licensed as both a Realtor and Mortgage Loan Officer. That means your financing and real estate move together from day one instead of falling between two different people. And we genuinely care about the relationship after closing, not just the commission.
Do you work with buyers from out of state?
Yes. We help relocating families every month. Virtual tours, remote closings, neighborhood consultations — we handle the entire process whether you are across the state or across the country.
What areas do you serve?
San Antonio, New Braunfels, Universal City, Cibolo, Helotes, Alamo Heights, Schertz, and surrounding areas throughout the greater San Antonio metro.
Still have questions?
We are happy to answer anything. No question is too basic and there is no such thing as a dumb question when you are making a big decision.