Frequently Asked Questions

Buying or selling a home in South Placer can bring up a lot of questions — and we’re here to make things simple. This page answers the most common questions we hear from local buyers and sellers, so you can feel confident every step of the way.

Do I really need a 20% down payment to buy a home?

This is one of the biggest and most persistent myths in real estate. While a 20% down payment can help you avoid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), it is not a requirement. There are many excellent loan programs that allow you to put down as little as 3.5% or, in some cases, even 0%. We can connect you with trusted lenders who can explain all your options.

Should I wait for home prices or mortgage rates to drop?

Trying to "time the market" is a strategy that rarely works. The best time to buy is when you are financially and personally ready. Prices and rates are two factors, but they aren't the only ones. We believe in focusing on what you can control: your budget, your goals, and your timeline. We'll help you find the right home for you, based on your needs today.

Why do I need to get pre-approved before I even look at homes?

Getting pre-approved is a critical first step. It's not as exciting as touring homes, but it's essential. A pre-approval letter from a lender shows you exactly how much you can afford, so you're not shopping for homes outside your budget. Just as importantly, it shows sellers you are a serious and credible buyer, which gives you a major advantage when it's time to make an offer.

What makes Jensen Group Realty different from other agents?

We run our business like a business, not a part-time hobby. For us, this is a full-time career, and we dedicate 100% of our energy to being experts in our field. Our team is led by:

-Linda Jensen: With over 24 years of experience, Linda brings a wealth of expertise in marketing, advertising, and sales.

-Scott Martin: A client specialist who has lived in the area for over 35 years and knows the community well.

Both Linda and Scott have earned the Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) distinction, a certification that under 5% of agents hold, giving our clients a powerful advantage.

What is it like to work with Jensen Group Realty?

We are your trusted partners. Our goal is to earn your trust and become your go-to real estate professionals for life. We do this through:

-Proactive Communication: We keep you informed with reports on our marketing efforts, market changes, and feedback from showings.

-A Proven Process: We use a tech-driven, comprehensive marketing plan to get your home maximum exposure.

What if I sell my home quickly but can't find one to buy?

This is a common worry, and it's why having a solid strategy is so important. As your partners, we help you navigate this exact situation. We'll discuss all your options, from negotiating a "rent-back" that gives you more time in your current home to identifying replacement properties before we even list. Our goal is to ensure the process is as seamless as possible.

Why can't I just sell my home myself (FSBO)?

It's certainly an option, but in today's complex market, it's more challenging than ever. An experienced agent does more than just put a sign in the yard. We are experts in:

-Strategic Pricing: We'll help you price your home accurately from the start, which is key to attracting the best offers.

-Exposure: Our comprehensive marketing plan (including social media, a custom website, and professional media) ensures your home is seen by the largest possible pool of qualified buyers.

-Negotiation: Our team includes Certified Negotiation Experts (CNEs). We manage the entire negotiation process, from offers to inspection requests, to protect your interests and get you the best possible terms.

-Paperwork: The legal paperwork and disclosures involved in a sale are complex. We manage all the details to ensure a smooth transaction.

Do I really need to "stage" my home?

To get top dollar, your home needs to be presented in its best possible light. This is why we provide a complimentary consultation with a professional home designer and stager. They will provide a checklist of recommendations to ensure your home appeals to the widest range of buyers.

Is it smarter to just keep renting instead of buying?

Renting can feel like the easier option in the short term, but it's often the costlier path over the long term. When you rent, you're paying your landlord's mortgage. When you own, you're investing in your own future. Homeownership is one of the most proven and powerful ways to build lasting, generational wealth.

I'm hesitant to sell and give up my low mortgage rate. Is it still a good time?

That's a very understandable concern. What we find is that most people decide to move based on life events, not just market timing. Whether you need more space, want to downsize, or need to be closer to family, your life's needs are the most important factor. We can help you explore the significant equity you've likely built in your home and how that can power your next move.

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Linda Jensen & Scott Martin
DRE #02188671, #02188680
Jensen Group Realty
Real Brokerage #02022092
Equal Housing Opportunity

Contact Us On:

© All Rights Reserved. - 2026

Linda Jensen & Scott Martin

DRE #02188671, #02188680

Jensen Group Realty

Real Brokerage #02022092
Equal Housing Opportunity

© All Rights Reserved. - 2026