• What is a survey?
• How can I search for available properties?
• What is considered an offer?
• What does it mean to be "under contract"?
• What is an option period?
• What is an inspection?
• What is an appraisal?
• What does a mortgage company do?
• What does a title company do?

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Q – What is a survey?
A – A survey shows boundary lines for the parcel of land, any improvements, easements and building setback lines. It will also show if any improvements extend out of the parcel of land or if any neighboring improvements extend onto the surveyed parcel of land. Back to the top

Q – How can I search for available properties?
A – Click on “Sales” in the top navigation and then utilize the search feature on that page, which ties into the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) for Austin and the surrounding areas. Back to the top

Q – What is considered an offer?
A – An offer is the process of placing terms for purchase (or lease) onto a contract and presenting it to another party for acceptance or rejection. Different standardized contract forms have been developed for different transaction types; lot, condominiums, single-family, etc… Back to the top

Q – What does it mean to be “under-contract”?
A – Being “under contract” means that terms for purchase have been agreed to by both parties and the option fee, earnest fee, and signed contract with necessary addenda (if applicable) have been delivered to a title company. Back to the top

Q – What is an option period?
A- The option period is an agreed to period of time by the buyer and seller, in which the buyer provides a monetary amount for a set number of days, whereby the buyer can back-out with or without reason and not lose any money above the option fee they have paid. Option fees are not refundable, but can be put toward closing costs if negotiated as such. Back to the top

Q – What is an inspection?
A – An inspection is the process of having an impartial third-party educated/experienced in evaluating property for possible defects or issues that have or may occur. Typically performed by the buyer for their protection and to allow them a clearer perspective on the condition of the property in question. Inspections usually occur during the option period. Back to the top

Q – What is an appraisal?
A – An appraisal is the process of accessing the value of the property, usually on the basis of qualifying for financing. Appraisers are impartial and their job is to verify that the value of the property in question is equal to or greater than the amount being borrowed against it. Back to the top

Q – What does a mortgage company do?
A – Mortgage companies are responsible for assisting buyers whom are financing a portion of their purchase in obtaining this financing and getting the necessary paperwork in order to buy the property. Mortgage companies also assist in helping the buyer secure the best loan program meeting their needs. Back to the top

Q – What does a title company do?
A – The title company is considered the impartial third-party that facilitates the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer and in addition they provide a background check on the property to insure there are no outstanding liens or judgments against it that would pass along to the new buyers and then they sell an insurance policy against the possible future finding of said judgments from becoming the buyer’s responsibility.

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