Frequently Asked Questions
Real estate comes with a lot of questions—and that's a good thing. This FAQ page is designed to provide clear, helpful answers about buying, selling, investing, and relocating in Austin, Central Texas, and the Texas Coast. My goal is to make the process feel approachable, informative, and stress-free, so you can move forward with confidence.
Is now a good time to buy a home?
The best time to buy a home in Austin depends on your financial goals, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Whether you're purchasing your first home, upgrading, investing, or relocating, having an experienced Austin REALTOR® can help you identify opportunities and negotiate the best possible terms regardless of market conditions.
How much money do I need to buy a home?
Your down payment depends on the loan program you choose. Many buyers qualify with much less than 20% down. In addition to your down payment, you'll want to budget for closing costs, inspections, and moving expenses.
Should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?
Absolutely. A mortgage pre-approval helps determine your budget, strengthens your offer, and allows you to move quickly when you find the right home.
What areas of Texas do you serve?
I proudly serve Central Texas, including Downtown Austin, Westlake, Lake Travis, Cedar Park, Leander, Georgetown, Round Rock, Liberty HIll, Dripping Springs, Bee Cave, Buda, Kyle, and surrounding communities. The Barth Group spans the entire state of Texas and specializes in Coastal Properties as well as Farm and Ranch Properties. Our team has an expert in every feild and is ready to help anywhere in the state.
Do you also help buyers on the Texas Coast?
Yes! In addition to Austin, I help clients purchase homes, vacation properties, waterfront homes, and investment properties along the Texas Coast.
How long does it take to buy a home in Texas?.
Most home purchases take 30–45 days after a contract is accepted, although timelines can vary depending on financing, inspections, and negotiations.
What are closing costs for buyers?
Closing costs generally include lender fees, title fees, appraisal costs, prepaid taxes, insurance, and escrow expenses. I'll provide an estimate early in the process so there are no surprises.
Why should I use a REALTOR® instead of buying directly from the listing agent?
Having your own REALTOR® means you have someone representing your interests throughout negotiations, inspections, contracts, and closing. The listing agent will be representing the best interests of the sellers, so having your own advocate will ensure the best representation during the purchase process.
What should I look for during a home tour?
​Beyond finishes and décor, pay attention to layout, natural light, neighborhood, roof age, foundation, HVAC, windows, and resale potential. Often times, there is a feeling that will arrive when the perfect home is found.
How competitive is the Austin real estate market?
The Austin market changes throughout the year. I provide current market data, pricing strategies, and neighborhood insights so you can make informed decisions.
When is the best time to sell a home?
Every property is different, but spring and early summer often bring increased buyer activity. Pricing and preparation are just as important as timing.
How do I prepare my home before listing?
Preperation is everything! I will provide effective feedback and proven strategies to sell your home quickly. Professional photography, staging, decluttering, minor repairs, landscaping, and strategic pricing all help maximize value.
How do you determine my home's value?
I perform a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) using recent sales, market trends, property condition, location, and buyer demand. We will speak extensivley about the property value and sales expectations before hitting the market.
Do I need to stage my home before selling?
While every home is different, thoughtful staging often helps buyers emotionally connect with the property and can increase perceived value.
How long will my home stay on the market?
This depends on pricing, presentation, location, and market conditions. My goal is to position your home competitively from day one.
​What makes a strong offer when buying a home?
Price matters, but so do financing strength, flexibility, timelines, earnest money, and clean contract terms.
What happens after my offer is accepted?
You'll complete inspections, negotiate repairs if needed, finalize financing, complete the appraisal, and prepare for closing.
What is earnest money?
Earnest money is a good-faith deposit submitted with your offer that shows the seller you're serious about purchasing the home.
Can you help first-time homebuyers?
Absolutely! I love helping first-time buyers understand the process and feel confident from start to finish. The process can be daunting, and my goal is to make it as clear and fun as possible.
Do you help with luxury homes?
Yes. Whether you're buying or selling a luxury home in Austin or a waterfront property on the Texas Coast, I provide a personalized, elevated experience. My background is working with custom home builders and buyers to create a bespoke experience that brings your dream home to life.
Do you work with relocation clients?
Yes. I regularly help buyers relocating to Austin and Central Texas by providing virtual tours, neighborhood guidance, and local expertise.
​Can you recommend lenders, inspectors, and contractors?
Absolutely. I have a trusted network of local professionals that I confidently recommend to my clients.
Why is local market knowledge important?
Every neighborhood is unique. Local expertise helps buyers make smarter decisions and helps sellers position their homes effectively.
How do you market homes for sale?
My marketing includes professional photography, video, social media marketing, online exposure, strategic pricing, open houses, and targeted digital marketing designed to reach qualified buyers.
​What makes waterfront homes on the Texas Coast different?
Waterfront properties often involve additional considerations such as flood zones, insurance, maintenance, and local regulations. I'll help guide you through those details.
Can you help me invest in real estate?
Yes. Whether you're looking for a rental property, second home, or vacation investment, I can help evaluate opportunities in both Austin and the Texas Coast.
Why should I choose a local Austin REALTOR®?
A local REALTOR® understands neighborhood trends, pricing strategies, schools, development, and community amenities that national websites simply can't provide.
What can I expect when working with you?
My goal is to make buying or selling feel organized, enjoyable, and stress-free. I value communication, transparency, thoughtful strategy, and building long-term relationships—not just completing transactions.
​How do I get started?
The first step is simply reaching out. We'll schedule a conversation, discuss your goals, answer your questions, and create a personalized plan for buying or selling your home. You can fill out the contact form on this page, reach out on Facebook or Instagram, or send a text to 512.814.9600
Who is the best REALTOR® in Austin?
Choosing the best REALTOR® depends on your goals and the experience you're looking for. If you're searching for someone who combines local market knowledge, thoughtful strategy, elevated marketing, and a relationship-first approach, I'd love the opportunity to earn your trust.
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I'm Regan Pack, and I proudly help clients buy and sell homes throughout Austin, Central Texas, and the Texas Coast. My focus is making every client feel confident, informed, and cared for—from our first conversation through closing and beyond.