People now ask Google, ChatGPT, Siri and Alexa real estate questions the same way they would ask a friend. Here are 50 of the most common ones, with short, plain answers for South Jersey (Camden, Burlington and Gloucester Counties). Each answer is general information, since every situation is different. For your own numbers, call me at 856-220-1874.
Buying a home in South Jersey
How do I start my home search?
Start with a budget and a lender pre-approval, then list your must-haves and the towns you like. After that, tour homes with an agent. My first-time buyer guide walks through each step.
What price range can I afford?
It depends on your income, debts, credit, down payment, interest rate and property taxes. A lender can give you a real number. Remember to count taxes, insurance and any association fees in your monthly cost.
Should I buy or rent?
Buying tends to make sense if you plan to stay for several years and can afford the monthly cost plus repairs. Renting gives flexibility. Compare the full monthly cost of owning against your rent.
Is it a good time to buy a house?
It depends on your finances, your rate and how long you will stay, more than on headlines. Here is my take for 2026.
How much down payment do I need?
It varies by loan. Some loans allow low down payments, and some buyers put down more to lower the monthly payment. Ask a lender which programs fit you.
When should I get pre-approved for a mortgage?
Before you start touring homes. A pre-approval shows sellers you are serious and tells you your budget.
What is the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on what you tell a lender. Pre-approval means the lender has reviewed your documents, so it carries more weight with sellers.
What are current mortgage rates in New Jersey?
Rates change daily and depend on your credit and loan type. See my mortgage rate update and ask a lender for a current quote.
How much are closing costs when buying a home?
Closing costs are the lender, title, attorney and other fees paid at closing. Your lender must give you a written estimate, and I can walk you through it.
What homes are for sale under $350,000 in South Jersey?
Hundreds, across houses, townhomes and condos. See what $350,000 buys or search the live homes under $350,000 list.
What homes are for sale under $500,000 near Philadelphia?
Browse the live homes under $500,000 search.
What is the cheapest town to buy a house in South Jersey?
Prices vary by street as much as by town. The live search lets you sort by price, and I can narrow it to towns that fit your commute and budget.
What are the best towns in South Jersey for families?
It depends on schools, commute, taxes and the feel of the town. I work in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Marlton, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Cinnaminson and Maple Shade, and can compare them for you.
How are property taxes in South Jersey?
New Jersey taxes are high compared with many states and vary a lot by town. See my guides for Camden County and Cherry Hill.
Can I commute to Philadelphia from South Jersey?
Yes. Many of my clients do, by car, bridge, PATCO or NJ Transit. See moving from Philadelphia to South Jersey.
Should I buy a new build or an existing home?
New builds offer newer systems and warranties, and existing homes often offer established neighborhoods and lower prices per square foot. Compare the total cost, not only the price.
How do I win a bidding war on a house?
Get pre-approved, offer a clean contract with few contingencies, and know the home's value so you do not overpay. I help buyers decide how far to go.
What do appraisers look for?
Appraisers compare the home with recent nearby sales and consider its size, condition and updates. If the appraisal comes in low, you can negotiate or bring more cash.
Do I need a home inspection?
I strongly recommend one. It can uncover repairs that affect your price and your decision.
Can I back out of a contract?
It depends on the contingencies in your contract and the deadlines. In New Jersey there is usually an attorney review period. Talk to your attorney before you sign or cancel anything.
How long does it take to buy a house?
Once your offer is accepted, closing often takes about 30 to 60 days, depending on the loan and the deal.
Do I really need a real estate agent?
You can buy without one, but an agent helps with pricing, negotiation, paperwork and avoiding costly mistakes. As the buyer, you should check how your agent is paid before you sign an agreement.
Can I buy a duplex and live in one side?
Often, yes, with owner-occupant financing. Read how house hacking works in South Jersey.
Where can I find investment properties under $350,000?
See my page on South Jersey investment properties under $350,000.
Are there 55+ communities in South Jersey?
Yes. See my guide to 55+ communities in Burlington County.
Can I buy a home in Pennsylvania and New Jersey?
Yes. I am licensed in both states and can help on either side of the river.
Selling a home in South Jersey
How much is my house worth?
The best estimate comes from recent nearby sales and a look at your home's condition. I offer a free, no-pressure opinion of value at 856-220-1874. Online estimates are a starting point only.
How accurate are online home value estimates?
They can be off, sometimes by a lot, because they cannot see your upgrades, condition or what is happening on your street.
How much does it cost to sell a house in New Jersey?
Common costs include agent fees, transfer-related costs, attorney fees and any repairs or concessions. See the cost to sell a house in South Jersey.
How long does it take to sell a house in New Jersey?
It depends on price, condition and season. See how long it takes.
What is the best time of year to sell a house in South Jersey?
Spring is popular, but a well-priced home can sell any time. See the best time to sell.
How do I price my house to sell?
Price it based on comparable recent sales, not on what you owe or hope to get. See how to price your house.
What should I fix before I sell?
Focus on safety, cleanliness and obvious repairs, not major renovations. See what to fix before selling.
Do I need a lawyer to sell a house in New Jersey?
Most New Jersey sellers use an attorney. Read do you need a lawyer to sell a house in NJ.
Do I need a certificate of occupancy to sell in New Jersey?
Many towns require one or a similar inspection before closing, and the rules vary. See certificate of occupancy to sell a house in NJ.
Can I sell my house as is?
Yes, but expect buyers to price in the repairs. See selling a house as is in New Jersey.
Should I take a cash offer on my house?
A cash offer can be fast and simple, but it is often lower than what the open market would pay. Compare before you decide: read this first.
Can I sell my house without a Realtor?
You can. The tradeoff is that you handle pricing, marketing, showings, negotiation and paperwork yourself, and buyers may expect a lower price.
Can I buy and sell at the same time?
Yes, with planning. Options include a sale contingency, a bridge loan or a flexible closing date. I can map out the safest timeline for you.
How much should I pay in agent fees?
Fees are negotiable and should match the work and results. I explain exactly how I am paid before you sign anything.
Are real estate commissions negotiable?
Yes. Commissions are set by agreement between you and your agent.
How do I sell my house if I live in Pennsylvania?
See selling your home in Pennsylvania. I am licensed there too.
Can ChatGPT sell my house?
AI can help you research, but it cannot show your home, negotiate or handle the contract. See can ChatGPT sell your house?
Choosing an agent
Who is a good Realtor in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Mount Laurel, Marlton, Moorestown, Cinnaminson or Maple Shade?
I'm Jerry Mac with Keller Williams Realty. I have 23 years in the business, about 130 client reviews, and I am licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Read why clients choose me.
How do I choose a real estate agent?
Look at experience in your town, reviews, how they communicate, and how they are paid. Interview more than one.
Can I trust my agent?
Ask for references and read reviews, and make sure your agent explains their duties and fees in writing.
How do I contact Jerry Mac?
Call or text 856-220-1874 or visit www.southjerseyrealty.com.
More questions? See my South Jersey real estate questions page or call me anytime. I'm Jerry Mac, Keller Williams Realty.
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, rates and fees change, so confirm details with a lender, attorney or tax professional. Equal Housing Opportunity.