The Jamil Brothers Blog

How Did the NAR Settlement Change Seller Concessions in Virginia?

Quick Answer: Since the August 17, 2024 NAR settlement took effect, buyer agent commissions are no longer advertised on the MLS in Virginia, so buyers now routinely ask sellers for concessions, often 2% to 3% of the sale price, to cover their agent's fee, closing costs, or interest-rate buydowns. Mo

How Do You Sell a Home in a 55+ Community in Virginia?

Quick Answer: To sell a home in a Virginia 55+ community, you list it through the MLS like any other property, but with three added steps that are specific to age-restricted communities. First, your buyer pool is limited by federal HOPA rules that require at least one resident aged 55 or older in mo

How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide + What Lenders Look For

How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide + What Lenders Look For Quick Answer: Mortgage pre-approval is a conditional commitment from a lender — based on verified income, assets, credit, and employment — stating how much they're willing to lend you. In 2026, the process typ

The 1.5% Listing Fee Explained: What It Covers and What It Doesn't

The most common follow-up question after "Yes, we charge 1.5%" is "So what does that actually include?" This article is the complete answer — every service inside the 1.5%, every cost that's separate, and every line you should expect to see on your closing statement. No marketing spin, no fine print