Real Estate FAQs

While Pennsylvania does not legally require a real estate attorney for home purchases, having one can provide legal protection. A lawyer can review contracts, ensure clear title, and assist with closing negotiations. If issues arise with disclosures, zoning, or financing, an attorney can help protect your interests.

Title insurance protects homebuyers and lenders from potential claims against the property, such as ownership disputes, unpaid liens, or recording errors. It ensures clear ownership and prevents unexpected financial losses related to past title issues.

A home inspection is a thorough evaluation of the property’s condition by a licensed inspector. It typically covers:

• Structural components (foundation, walls, roof)
• Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
• Pest or mold issues
• Safety hazards

Buyers can use the inspection report to negotiate repairs or price reductions before finalizing the purchase.

Closing costs are fees associated with finalizing a home purchase. These can include:

• Loan origination fees
• Title search and title insurance
• Government recording fees
• Appraisal and inspection fees
• Property taxes and homeowner’s insurance

In Pennsylvania, closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price.

Home-buying can take 30 to 60 days, depending on financing, inspections, and negotiations. Cash purchases can close faster, while funding and legal processes may extend timelines.

Yes, but financing may be more difficult. Options for buyers with lower credit scores include:

• FHA loans (require a lower credit score and down payment)
• VA loans (for veterans, with no down payment required)
• Co-signers (to help qualify for better loan terms)
• Improving credit first (paying down debts and disputing errors)

The required down payment varies by loan type:

• Conventional loan: Typically 5-20%
• FHA loan: As low as 3.5%
• VA loan: 0% (for eligible veterans)
• USDA loan: 0% (for rural property buyers)

A higher down payment can help secure better loan terms and reduce monthly mortgage payments.

Sellers generally respond within 24 to 48 hours, but there is no strict legal timeframe. If an offer is time-sensitive, you can set an expiration deadline in your purchase agreement.

If a seller rejects your offer, you can:

• Submit a counteroffer with revised terms
• Increase your offer or improve contingencies
• Move on and look at other properties

A real estate agent can help negotiate a better deal based on market conditions.

A final walk-through is not legally required, but it is highly recommended. It allows buyers to confirm that repairs were completed and that the home is in agreed-upon condition before closing.

• A deed is a legal document that transfers ownership from the seller to the buyer.
• A title represents legal ownership and includes any claims or liens against the property.

Title searches ensure the seller has clear ownership before the deed transfer occurs.