Home Buyers Guide

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is overestimating what they can afford.  If you make a home buying decision on what you may afford in the near future, you can find yourself over you head.  Just be realistic.  Remember you may be living in you new home a while and you will have other expenses.

Don't decide to fast, or too slow.  Be sure to pace yourself.  If you manage to see several homes, you'll have a better idea of what you're looking for and how much it should cost.

You will be spending a lot if time with your agent and entrusting them with one of the most important decisions of you life. Look for an agent with an impressive track record, sharp instincts, sound skills, and personal qualities you admire.

So some homework before you shop.  Familiarize yourself with points, Lender's fees, annual percentage rates, interest fees, earnest money and penalties.

Check your credit report.  If there are problems with your credit, be as honest as possible.

Pre-approval shows the seller that you mean business, and often makes them receptive to a lower offer.

Don't forget the cost of utilities. You may love that big house, but when you find that it costs nearly as much to heat it as your payments, you may reconsider.

It is critical to have a home inspected by a certified home inspector.  A certified inspector will examine everything so you'll know just how much of a fixer-upper you're buying into.  A quality home inspection can cost a bit of change, but it could end up saving you thousands in the long run.

For every home you'll look at that's overpriced, there are two others that are priced right.  If you really love the home, and your agent says it's a steal, take it.  Haggling often turns a seller off, and results in many buyers losing the home of their dreams.

Buying a home is a large and important investment.  Don't Buy a home you don't really want just to get it over with. Once you have found a home you really want, be flexible when it comes to closing dates.  Plan ahead so that you won't be left out in the cold when the closing date is set back.