FAQ

Pauling Homes Team – Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it typically take to buy a home in Minnesota?

Once you’ve found the right home, the process from accepted offer to closing usually takes about 30–45 days. This can vary based on financing, inspections, and title work.

2. Do I need a Realtor to buy a home in Minnesota?

Technically, no—but working with a licensed Realtor provides expert guidance, access to listings before they hit the public sites, skilled negotiation, and protection throughout the process. Plus, in most cases, the seller pays the buyer’s agent’s commission, not you.

3. What’s the average down payment for a home in Minnesota?

While the traditional 20% down payment still exists, many buyers in Minnesota qualify for loans with as little as 3–5% down, or even 0% for certain VA or USDA loans. There are also first-time homebuyer programs through the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) that can help with down payment and closing costs.

4. What are property taxes like in Minnesota?

Property taxes vary by county, city, and school district. In the Twin Cities metro, most homeowners pay between 1.0%–1.4% of their home’s assessed value per year. Your agent can help estimate taxes for specific properties.

5. What inspections are common when buying a home in Minnesota?

Most buyers schedule a general home inspection, plus optional inspections like radon, sewer scope, and chimney depending on the property. In older homes, lead-based paint or asbestos testing may also be recommended.

6. What is earnest money, and how much is typical in Minnesota?

Earnest money is a deposit showing good faith when making an offer. In Minnesota, it’s typically 1–2% of the purchase price and is applied toward your closing costs or down payment at closing.

7. Do sellers have to disclose issues with the home?

Yes. Minnesota law requires sellers to provide a written property disclosure detailing known defects or issues that could affect the home’s value or safety. There are penalties for knowingly withholding information.

8. What does a Realtor do when selling my home?

Your Realtor will handle pricing, marketing, showings, negotiations, inspections, and closing details. The Pauling Homes Team also provides professional photography (through 8710 Photography), staging advice, and customized marketing to help your home stand out.

9. What’s included in closing costs for Minnesota buyers and sellers?

For buyers, closing costs typically include lender fees, title insurance, appraisal, and escrow—about 2–4% of the purchase price.
For sellers, costs include agent commissions, title fees, and any agreed-upon concessions.

10. How do I know what my home is worth?

The best way is a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) prepared by your Realtor. The Pauling Homes Team offers a free, no-obligation home valuation that factors in current market trends, recent sales, and your home’s unique features.

11. Can I buy or sell a home remotely if I’m out of state?

Absolutely. Minnesota closings can often be handled virtually or by mail, and our team regularly works with relocating buyers and sellers using electronic signatures, video tours, and remote notaries.

12. What’s the difference between “pending” and “contingent” on a listing?

• Contingent means the seller has accepted an offer, but certain conditions (like inspection or financing) still need to be met.

• Pending means all contingencies have been satisfied, and the sale is moving toward closing.

13. How do I get started with the Pauling Homes Team?

You can reach out via our contact page, call, or text one of our agents directly. We’ll start with a short consultation to understand your goals and outline your next steps—whether buying, selling, or both.


Lasted updated on 10/7/2025