Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our FAQ. Here are some of the most common questions clients ask about working with the Donahue Maley & Burns Team. If you don’t see your question answered here, please reach out — we’re always happy to help.

What areas do you serve?
We work throughout Wellesley, Weston, Natick, Needham, Newton, Brookline, Dover, Wayland, Norfolk, and the greater MetroWest Boston communities.

How do I start the process of buying a home with your team?
We’ll begin with a consultation to understand your priorities — location, style, budget, and timing. From there, we’ll set up tailored searches, tour properties with you, and guide you through offers, negotiations, inspections, and closing.

Do you help first-time buyers?
Absolutely. We regularly work with first-time buyers and will walk you through every step — from getting pre-approved and understanding financing, to navigating inspections and closing with confidence.

How do you determine the right listing price?
We use a combination of local expertise, recent comparable sales, property condition, and neighborhood features to recommend a competitive price that positions your home to sell at maximum value.

What is Compass Concierge, and how does it work?
Compass Concierge fronts the cost of home improvement and staging services to help your property stand out. These costs are repaid at closing, allowing you to present your home at its best without upfront expenses.

What makes the Donahue Maley & Burns Team different?
You don’t just work with one agent — you work with a full team. With decades of combined experience, deep local knowledge, and 24/7 accessibility, we provide elevated service and strong advocacy throughout your entire real estate journey.

What are your commission fees?
Our fees are competitive and reflect the full scope of marketing, negotiation, and client support we provide. We’ll review the details transparently during our initial consultation.

How long does the buying or selling process take?
Timelines vary depending on the market, property type, and your goals. On average, selling a home can take a few weeks to a few months once listed. Buying depends on how specific your criteria are and the pace of the market. We’ll provide a personalized timeline based on your situation.

Do I need to be pre-approved for a mortgage before looking at homes?
Yes, we strongly recommend it. Pre-approval helps define your budget, speeds up the process once you find the right home, and makes your offer more competitive.

What are the current trends in the Wellesley / MetroWest market?
The market changes frequently, but we provide regular updates to keep our clients informed. Reach out to us for the latest insight on pricing, inventory, and buyer demand in your neighborhood.

How do you market homes you list?
Our comprehensive marketing strategy includes professional photography, staging, digital and print advertising, targeted outreach, social media campaigns, and open houses — all designed to attract qualified buyers and achieve the best result.

Do you assist with relocation or out-of-area clients?
Yes. We regularly help clients relocating to or from the area and can coordinate everything from virtual showings to connecting you with trusted local partners.

We’d love to help. Contact the Donahue Maley & Burns Team at (781) 591-0671 or through our Contact Us page.