Honest answers
Frequently asked questions.
There are no dumb questions in real estate. Only unanswered ones. Let's fix that.
Buying a Home
How much do I need for a down payment?
Down payments vary by loan type. Conventional loans can be as low as 3-5%, FHA loans around 3.5%, and VA/USDA loans may require zero down. I'll connect you with trusted local lenders who can walk you through your options.
How long does the buying process take?
From the time you start actively searching, most buyers find and close on a home within 30-60 days. The pre-approval process adds a couple of weeks before that. I'll keep things moving efficiently so you're not stuck in limbo.
Should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?
Absolutely. A pre-approval tells you exactly what you can afford, makes your offer much stronger, and speeds up the closing process. It also helps us avoid falling in love with homes outside your budget.
Do I need a buyer's agent?
You can technically buy without one, but a buyer's agent costs you nothing (the seller typically pays the commission) and provides invaluable expertise, negotiation power, and protection throughout the process.
Selling a Home
How do you determine the listing price?
I use a comprehensive comparative market analysis that looks at recent sales, current competition, market trends, and your home's unique features. We price strategically, not too high and not too low.
Should I make repairs before listing?
Some repairs have a high ROI and are worth doing, like fixing a leaky faucet or patching holes. Others may not be worth the investment. I'll give you an honest assessment of what will and won't help.
How long will it take to sell?
In the current Clackamas County market, well-priced homes typically sell within 30-45 days. My marketing strategy is designed to minimize your time on market.
What does it cost to sell my home?
The main costs are agent commissions (negotiable), closing costs (typically 1-3% of the sale price), and any pre-listing repairs or staging. I'll provide a detailed net proceeds estimate before we list.
General Questions
What areas do you serve?
I serve all of Clackamas County and surrounding areas, including Oregon City, Gladstone, Milwaukie, West Linn, Canby, Molalla, Beavercreek, Happy Valley, Estacada, and SE Portland. My typical price range is $400,000 to $1.3 million.
What makes you different from other agents?
Many agents handle dozens of transactions at once. I intentionally limit my client load so I can provide a truly customized, white-glove experience. You're never just a transaction to me, you're a neighbor, and I treat you that way.
Do you work with first-time buyers?
Absolutely, first-time buyers are some of my favorite clients. I have a dedicated First-Time Buyer Hub on this site with everything you need to know, and I'll personally walk you through every step of the process.
Can you help with horse farms and acreage?
Yes! Clackamas County has incredible rural properties and horse farms. I understand the unique aspects of these transactions, water rights, land use, zoning, and the specific needs of horse owners.
How do I contact you?
You can reach me by phone at (503) 708-6788, by email at dom@dominiquehofmann.com, or through the contact form on this site. I'm responsive and I'll get back to you quickly, that's one of the things my clients appreciate most.
Still have questions?
I'd love to answer them. Let's have a real conversation, no scripts, no pressure, just honest guidance.
Ask Me Anything