Buyer's Top Ten

1. Getting pre-approved for your financing is essential before you even start looking. Complete a mortgage application as soon as possible.

2. Review your personal budget so you know what you can comfortably allow for your housing expense.

3. Determine your geographic areas to consider.

4. Analyze your home requirements. Try to separate the wish list from the essential needs.

5. Hire an experienced Realtor. If you hire an experienced Realtor, you will be appropriately advised of Buyer/Seller representation, laws regarding disclosure and the necessary documents involved in a Real Estate transaction. Your Realtor is your knowledge base of information about Real Estate, buying, selling, closing and referrals to reputable closers, title companies and real estate attorneys.

6. Meet with your Realtor to discuss your needs. Now is the time to get a quick reading on how realistic your goals are and if your timing is appropriate.

7. Begin your housing search. Seeing is not only believing, but understanding the marketplace. Once you are into the process of looking at homes, you probably will find yourself adjusting your search criteria.

8. Openly and actively communicate your thoughts and feelings to your agent. With this information, your agent can do a better job of helping you, guiding you in the right direction.

9. Learn as much as you can with the help of your agent, neighbors and others (i.e. city, park and recreation) about the home and area you are interested in. The more you know, the more comfort you have in structuring your offer and being happy with your decision.

10. Don’t be afraid to make the purchase. Sometimes you find the right combination sooner than you think possible. If you’ve done your homework, your process can be this easy!