Buying a Home in Reno, NV
Reno is a market where preparation decides outcomes. The well-priced homes in the neighborhoods people actually want move quickly, and the buyers who win are the ones who were ready before the listing went live — pre-approved, clear on their must-haves, and working with an agent who can get them in the door the same day.
I've closed more than 257 homes in ten years with Dickson Realty, and most of my buyer clients are not investors chasing deals. They're families, first-time buyers, and people relocating who want somebody to tell them the truth about a house instead of selling them on it. If a home has a problem, I'd rather say so in the driveway than have you find out at inspection.
Below is how the process runs from the first conversation to the keys. If any of it is unclear, call me at 775-432-4020 — the first conversation costs nothing.
How it works
- 01
Get pre-approved first
Not pre-qualified — pre-approved, with a lender who answers the phone on a Saturday. In Reno this is the difference between an offer being taken seriously and being ignored. I can introduce you to local lenders I trust if you don't have one.
- 02
Define the search honestly
Price, commute, schools, yard, HOA tolerance. We'll narrow to the neighborhoods that actually fit rather than touring the whole valley. Northwest Reno, south Reno, Sparks and the North Valleys are very different buys at the same price point.
- 03
Tour with someone who'll point out problems
Roof age, HVAC, evidence of drainage issues, HOA and SID assessments, and what the comparable sales say the home is really worth. You should leave a showing knowing more than you did walking in.
- 04
Write an offer built to win — and to protect you
Price is only one term. Close date, appraisal handling, inspection period, and how the offer is presented all matter. I negotiate for buyers every week, and I don't advise waiving protections you'll regret.
- 05
Inspections, appraisal and repairs
Inspection findings are a negotiation, not a verdict. I'll help you separate the items that genuinely matter from the ones that are normal for a Nevada home of that age.
- 06
Close and get the keys
Final walkthrough, signing at title, funding and recording. You'll know what's happening at each step rather than wondering.
Common questions
- How much do I need for a down payment in Reno?
- It depends on the loan. Conventional loans can start around 3-5% down, FHA around 3.5%, and VA loans can be zero down for eligible buyers. Nevada also has down payment assistance programs some buyers qualify for. A local lender can tell you exactly where you stand in one conversation.
- Does the buyer pay the agent?
- Buyer agent compensation is negotiable and is discussed and agreed to in writing before we tour homes. I'll walk you through exactly how it works in your situation with no pressure.
- How fast do homes sell in Reno?
- It varies by neighborhood and price point. Well-priced homes in strong areas can go under contract within days, while higher price points and unique properties take longer. I'll show you the current numbers for the specific neighborhoods you're considering.