For Buyers
Buy with Confidence in Arkansas
From first visit to closing day, I’ll guide you through each step—pricing, offers, inspections, and negotiations—so you land the right home at the right terms.
Step 1: Getting Your Finances Ready
- BUDGET BEFORE YOU BUY – Live within your means and save, save, save. Bank the equivalent of three to six months living expenses for emergencies, then save up a 20 percent down payment.
- GET CREDIT READY – Pay bills on time. Pay off debt, including monthly credit card balances, and avoid taking on new debt.
- CONSIDER FUTURE COSTS – Insurance, homeowner association dues and regular maintenance will be part of your monthly budget as a homeowner.
- FIGURE OUT WHAT YOU CAN AFFORD – Research home prices online, then use an online mortgage calculator to figure your monthly payment. Mortgage lenders want your monthly payment to be no more than 30 percent of your income and your total debt including the mortgage to be no more than 36 percent of your income.
- CHECK YOUR FICO SCORE – You need a score of at least 620 to qualify for a conventional mortgage. A score over 760 will earn you the best rates.
- CHOOSE A MORTGAGE COMPANY – Ask your REALTOR® for referrals and read online reviews. Contact several lenders about fees, rates and terms, then apply for preapproval (not prequalification) with the one you like best.
Step 2: Let’s Go House Shopping!
- DECIDE WHAT YOU NEED AND WANT – Make a list of what you’re looking for in a neighborhood and a home.
- PARTNER WITH A REALTOR® – Get referrals for REALTORS® who have experience with the neighborhoods that interest you.
- TOUR HOMES WITH YOUR REALTOR® – Stick with houses that fit your budget.
- MAKE AN OFFER – Offer a reasonable price and terms that will win you the deal.
Step 3: Sealing the Deal
- START A MORTGAGE APPLICATION – Supply the necessary documents and respond promptly to your lender’s follow-up requests.
- ORDER A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION – Consider the needed repairs the inspection finds, then negotiate for price concessions. Ask the seller to make the repairs or, if the problems are significant, terminate the deal.
- RESPOND PROMPTLY TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY’S APPRAISAL – If the appraisal is lower than the sales price, prepare to renegotiate the deal.
- SECURE HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE – Send proof of insurance to your mortgage company.
- REVIEW HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION BYLAWS – Know the HOA rules you’ll have to comply with going in.
- REVIEW CLOSING DOCUMENTS – Ask a real estate attorney to explain anything you don’t understand.
Step 4: What You Get When We Work Together
- Strategic search: neighborhoods, schools, commute, resale value.
- Offer strategy: comps, terms, timing, and negotiation that wins.
- Risk control: inspections, repairs, contingencies—no surprises.
- Trusted network: local lenders, inspectors, and contractors.
- Have a question? Contact me →
Buyer Financing — Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need for a down payment?
Many loans let qualified buyers put as little as 3% down. VA loans can be 0% down, and some AR programs offer assistance. I’ll connect you with a local lender to compare options.
What affects my monthly payment?
Your payment is driven by price, down payment, interest rate, loan type, taxes, insurance, and HOA dues. A lender can run scenarios so you know exactly where you’re comfortable before we write an offer.
Should I get pre-approved before touring?
Yes. A pre-approval clarifies budget, strengthens your offer, and speeds up closing. I’ll introduce you to trusted locals who are fast, competitive, and responsive.
For Sellers
Thinking of Selling
My goal is to sell your property at top market value—quickly and painlessly. See how I help you net more with smart pricing, presentation, and marketing.
Seller’s GuideEXPERTISE. SERVICE. SUCCESS.
Richard Hawkins, REALTOR®
I work closely with you to ensure a smooth and seamless transaction, leveraging my experience for your benefit.