Question 1

How do I start the home buying process in Austin?

Accepted Answer

Start with a conversation about your budget, must-haves and timeline, then get pre-approved with a lender. From there, Leila sets up a search tailored to your criteria and you start touring homes that fit.

Question 2

Is Austin a good market for first-time buyers right now?

Accepted Answer

Austin offers a wide range of price points across its neighborhoods, from condos to single-family homes. A first-time buyer's best move is understanding which neighborhoods fit their budget and lifestyle before searching.

Question 3

What should sellers do before listing a home in Austin?

Accepted Answer

Leila walks the home first to spot quick wins like touch-up paint, repairs, or staging tweaks, and reviews comparable homes nearby to price it right from day one. Great photos, thoughtful staging, and accurate pricing are non-negotiable.

Question 4

What is earnest money and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Earnest money is a deposit that shows a seller you're serious about a purchase. It's held in escrow and applied toward your purchase at closing.

Question 5

How long does it typically take to close on a home?

Accepted Answer

Timelines vary by financing and negotiated terms, but most transactions move from accepted offer to closing within a few weeks.

Question 6

Do I need a real estate agent to buy a home?

Accepted Answer

You're not required to have one, but a buyer's agent represents your interests during negotiation, inspection and closing at no direct cost to you in most transactions.

Question 7

Who pays the buyer's agent fee in Austin?

Accepted Answer

Historically, the seller pays the buyer's agent fee at closing, not the buyer. Leila confirms exactly how buyer's agent compensation is handled before touring every home, so her clients know where they stand from the start.

Question 8

What areas of Austin does Leila Showery work in?

Accepted Answer

Leila works across South Austin, Central Austin, Zilker, Bouldin Creek, East Austin, Mueller, Tarrytown and surrounding suburbs.

Buying & selling in Austin, answered.