Frequently Asked Questions
Real Estate Questions, Answered Honestly
Common questions about buying and selling homes in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne, Christiana, Eagleville, and throughout Rutherford County, TN.
Finding an Agent
Who is a good REALTOR® in Murfreesboro, TN?
Adam Newkirk is a licensed REALTOR® and Affiliate Broker with Keller Williams Realty Murfreesboro, serving buyers and sellers throughout Rutherford County and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities. He specializes in residential home buying and selling in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne, Christiana, and Eagleville, TN. You can reach him directly at (615) 307-0246.
Is there a Keller Williams agent in Smyrna, TN or La Vergne, TN?
Yes. Adam Newkirk is a Keller Williams Realty Murfreesboro agent who actively works with buyers and sellers in Smyrna, La Vergne, Christiana, Eagleville, and all of Rutherford County. Keller Williams Realty Murfreesboro is one of the top real estate offices in Middle Tennessee.
How do I find a real estate agent in Rutherford County, TN?
Look for a licensed Tennessee Affiliate Broker with local market knowledge, transparent communication, and a track record in your specific area. Adam Newkirk with Keller Williams Realty Murfreesboro is based in Rutherford County and serves buyers and sellers throughout Middle Tennessee, giving clients the local expertise that larger regional teams often lack.
What makes Adam Newkirk different from other REALTORS® in Murfreesboro?
Adam's approach is direct and no-pressure. He gives honest pricing opinions even when the news isn't what you were hoping to hear, searches beyond the MLS for buyers (including coming soon listings and homeowner outreach), and handles every client personally — no handoffs to a team. His license number is 385393 and he is affiliated with Keller Williams Realty Murfreesboro.
Buying a Home
How much do I need to buy a home in Murfreesboro, TN?
Down payment requirements vary by loan type. Conventional loans typically require 3–20% down, FHA loans as little as 3.5%, and VA/USDA loans may require 0% down for qualifying buyers. In addition to the down payment, buyers should plan for closing costs (typically 2–4% of the purchase price). A local lender can give you an accurate number based on your situation.
How long does it take to buy a house in Rutherford County?
Once you go under contract, closings typically take 30–45 days. The search phase varies — some buyers find their home in a few weeks, others take a few months depending on inventory and how specific their criteria are. Getting pre-approved before you start searching significantly speeds up the process.
Does it cost anything to use a buyer's agent in Tennessee?
In most transactions, the seller pays the buyer's agent commission, so buyer representation typically costs you nothing out of pocket. This can vary by transaction, so it's worth asking upfront. Adam will give you a straightforward answer for your specific situation.
What is the housing market like in Murfreesboro, TN right now?
Rutherford County remains one of the fastest-growing counties in Tennessee. Murfreesboro and surrounding communities like Smyrna and La Vergne continue to attract buyers from across the country due to relatively affordable prices compared to Nashville, strong job growth, and quality of life. Inventory and pricing vary by neighborhood and price point — contact Adam for a current read on the specific area you're targeting.
Selling a Home
How do I sell my home in Murfreesboro or Rutherford County, TN?
The process starts with an accurate pricing strategy based on recent comparable sales in your neighborhood — not what Zillow or an automated tool estimates, but what buyers are actually paying right now. From there, preparation, professional photography, and MLS exposure get your home in front of qualified buyers. Adam provides a free Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) with no obligation.
How long does it take to sell a house in Rutherford County?
Days on market vary significantly by price point, location, and condition. Well-priced homes in good condition in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne, and Christiana often receive offers within the first week. Overpriced homes or those needing significant work may sit longer and ultimately sell for less. Pricing right the first time is the single most important factor.
What is my home worth in Smyrna, La Vergne, or Christiana, TN?
Your home's value is determined by recent sales of comparable properties in your specific neighborhood, adjusted for condition, updates, and unique features. Automated estimates (Zillow Zestimate, etc.) can be significantly off in either direction. Adam provides a free, no-obligation Comparative Market Analysis based on actual MLS data for your area.
How much does it cost to sell a home in Tennessee?
Seller costs typically include the real estate commission (usually 5–6% of the sale price, split between buyer's and seller's agents), closing costs (1–3%), and any repairs or concessions negotiated during the contract period. Adam will walk you through the full net sheet so you know exactly what to expect before you list.
Working with Adam
Does Adam Newkirk work with first-time home buyers?
Yes. Adam works with first-time buyers regularly and considers education a core part of his job. He'll explain each step of the process, tell you honestly what to expect, and connect you with trusted local lenders who can walk through your financing options. There's no pressure and no commitment required to have an initial conversation.
Can I buy and sell at the same time in Rutherford County?
Yes, and it's one of the most common situations Adam works through with clients. With the right plan and timeline, it's very manageable. He'll help you map out both transactions so you're never left without a place to go — or without a buyer for your current home.
Do you work with buyers and sellers outside of Rutherford County?
Yes. While Rutherford County is Adam's primary market, he regularly works with clients in surrounding counties including Wilson County (Lebanon, Mt. Juliet), Williamson County (Franklin, Brentwood), Bedford County (Shelbyville), Cannon County (Woodbury), Coffee County (Manchester), and Marshall County (Lewisburg). If you're in Middle Tennessee and not sure whether your area is covered, just reach out — if it's a market Adam can serve well, he'll say yes. If it isn't, he'll tell you honestly and point you toward someone who can.
How do I contact Adam Newkirk?
You can reach Adam directly at (615) 307-0246, by email at adam.newkirk@kw.com, or through the contact form at adamnewkirk.com. He's also available through Keller Williams Realty Murfreesboro at (615) 895-8000. He responds to all inquiries the same day.
Didn't Find Your Answer?
Every situation is different. Reach out and Adam will give you a straight answer for your specific circumstances — no pressure, no obligation.