Planning a move in the Midlands or Upstate? These answers cover a few of the questions buyers and sellers ask most often. Every purchase and sale is different, so use this page as a starting point – then get advice based on your goals, timing, and the specific property.
For Midlands real estate guidance, Keller Williams The Downing Group serves Columbia, Lexington, Lake Murray, Chapin, Irmo, and surrounding communities. For Upstate real estate guidance, The Downing Team at Keller Williams Drive serves Greenville, Anderson, Clemson, Seneca, Lake Keowee, and surrounding communities.
Buying a Home
Is now a good time to buy a home?
There is not one right answer for every buyer. A good time to buy is usually when your finances, timeline, and plans for the home make sense for you. Local inventory, competition, interest rates, and the types of homes available can vary by area and price range. Before you decide, talk with a lender about your options and with an agent about current conditions in the communities you are considering.
Should I talk to a lender before I start touring homes?
Talking with a lender early can help you understand a comfortable price range, estimated monthly payment, and likely cash needed at closing. It does not commit you to buying right away; it gives you a clearer starting point. Ask the lender to explain loan options, estimated cash to close, and the factors that could affect your payment before you begin touring homes.
How much money do I need to buy a home?
Your down payment is only one part of the total. Buyers should also plan for earnest money, inspections and other due-diligence costs, possible appraisal-related costs, closing costs, prepaid items, and moving expenses. The amount depends on the loan program, property, contract terms, and your individual financial situation. A lender can help you compare realistic cash-to-close estimates before you begin touring homes.
Can I offer under the asking price?
Yes, but the right strategy depends on the property and the current situation. Price is important, but sellers also consider terms such as financing, contingencies, timing, and the overall strength of the offer. Your agent can help you look at recent comparable sales, the home’s condition, days on market, and any information available about competing interest before you decide how to offer.
Selling a Home
How long could it take to sell my home?
The full timeline includes more than the time it takes to receive an offer. Preparation, pricing, property condition, local buyer demand, contract terms, financing, inspections, and closing coordination can all affect the process. A team member can help you map a practical timeline for preparing, listing, negotiating, and closing on your specific home.
Should I accept the highest offer?
Not necessarily. Price is important, but it is only one part of an offer. Financing, contingencies, inspection or due-diligence terms, requested concessions, timing, and the buyer’s overall ability to close can all matter. Your agent can help you compare the complete terms of each offer before you decide.
What happens after I accept an offer?
After the agreement is signed, the buyer may complete inspections or other due diligence, arrange financing and an appraisal when applicable, and work with the closing attorney. The seller continues preparing for closing and responds to any agreed contract steps. Exact deadlines and requirements depend on the agreement, so your agent will help you track the process from acceptance through closing.
Who pays closing costs in South Carolina?
Closing costs are negotiated in the contract, so there is not one fixed answer for every sale. Buyers and sellers commonly have separate costs, and an offer may include requests for seller-paid concessions or other terms. Your lender and closing attorney can explain the current costs and documents that apply to your transaction, while your agent can help you evaluate the proposed terms.
Still Have a Question?
The right next step depends on what you are buying or selling, where you are moving, and when you need to move. Contact our team to talk through your situation and connect with the correct Midlands or Upstate resource.
