In this episode of Mark’s Mortgage Guide, Mark Zachary breaks down the role of a listing agent and how they help homeowners sell their property for the highest possible price with the least amount of stress.

From pricing strategy and marketing to negotiations and closing coordination, we explain exactly what a listing agent does—and why having the right one matters more than ever in today’s market.

If you're planning to sell your home, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to make the right decisions.

📞 Call Mark at 832-504-9014
📧 Email Mark@NextStepHomeLoans.com

🎤 Want to be a guest or know someone who should be? Reach out today!

Mark Zachary

Broker/Owner

Certified Mortgage Advisor

NMLS# 201166

Next Step Home Loans, LLC

NextStepHomeLoans.com

Ofc: 832-504-9014

NMLS# 1746763

💰 What does it really cost to sell your home—and who pays closing costs?

In this episode of Mark’s Mortgage Guide, host Mark Zachary breaks down the true cost of selling a home so you can go into the process informed and confident. From real estate commissions to seller-paid closing costs and hidden expenses, we cover what every homeowner needs to know before listing their property.

You’ll learn:
• What typical selling costs look like (and why they can range from 6%–10%)
• Who usually pays closing costs in Texas
• What fees are negotiable in today’s market
• Common hidden costs sellers overlook
• How to maximize your net proceeds at closing

Whether you’re preparing to sell now or just planning ahead, this episode will help you avoid costly surprises and make smarter financial decisions.

📞 Have questions or need guidance?
Mark Zachary – 832-504-9014
📧 Mark@NextStepHomeLoans.com

👥 Interested in being a guest or know someone who would be a great fit?
Reach out to Mark at Mark@NextStepHomeLoans.com

Mark’s Mortgage Guide is your go-to source for real-world advice on mortgages, home buying, selling, and market trends—helping you make smarter moves in today’s housing market.

Mark Zachary

Broker/Owner

Certified Mortgage Advisor

NMLS# 201166

Next Step Home Loans, LLC

NextStepHomeLoans.com

Ofc: 832-504-9014

NMLS# 1746763

📝 Buying a home in Texas? One of the most common questions buyers ask is: What happens to earnest money at closing—and how much should you put down?

In this episode of Mark’s Mortgage Guide, we break down everything you need to know about earnest money deposits, including how much earnest money is typical in Texas, how it applies toward your closing costs, and what happens if a deal falls through.

You’ll learn:

• What earnest money is and why it matters in a real estate contract
• How much earnest money deposit is required in Texas (1%–3% rule)
• How earnest money is held in escrow by the title company
• What happens to earnest money at closing (credited toward your cash to close)
• When earnest money is refundable vs non-refundable
• The difference between earnest money and option fees
• How to protect your earnest money using contract contingencies

If you’re a first-time home buyer, move-up buyer, or even a real estate agent looking to better explain the contract process, this episode will give you clear, consistent, and convenient guidance.

📲 Check current mortgage rates anytime:
👉 https://bit.ly/MMG-CustomChatGPT

🤝 Have a client we can help?
👉 https://bit.ly/LeadIntroduction

Subscribe to Mark’s Mortgage Guide for expert insights on:
mortgage rates, home buying tips, closing costs, loan programs, Texas real estate, and smart financing strategies.

Mark Zachary

Broker/Owner

Certified Mortgage Advisor

NMLS# 201166

Next Step Home Loans, LLC

NextStepHomeLoans.com

Ofc: 832-504-9014

NMLS# 1746763