1. If you'd like to know you are searching for a property within your financial means it's always best to get yourself prequalified before you start a serious search for your home. Not only will the prequalification help you determine what you are able to afford for a mortgage, it will also help you determine whether or not your credit history, etc will even allow you to obtain a mortgage. The lenders are much more stringent in the lending of money due to the current "credit crisis".

2. Hire an agent. Although many may feel it is in their best interest to call the agent that is listing the property you may be interested in, keep in mind, that agent's first obligation was to get their client's home sold at the best price. Before I became a REALTOR, I felt the same way. I purchased my first home using this method. I was new as a consumer of real estate and didn't know any better. I tried to negotiate, but the agent basically made it sound as if the owner of the home could not come down another penny. I just assumed this was the way things worked...Now I know that I paid too much for that property and could've gotten a much better deal had I used a REALTOR to represent me and my best interests.

3. ALWAYS get a home inspection. Always make sure you place an offer contingent upon inspection. Never let your agent or the listing agent convince you that you shouldn't get an inspection! Even new construction has flaws! Getting an inspection will help you determine what types of issues you may have to deal with (bad foundation, plumbing problems, termites, faulty wiring, etc). Not only is it important for your own safety and quality of life, you may also be able to get some of these items repaired before you close or get a credit at closing to allow you to fix them at your discretion.

4. Ask about a home warranty. It's almost always a really good idea to ask for a home warranty with your purchase of a home. This will cover you in the event of an appliance going bad or major systems like the furnace or air conditioner malfunction. Would you rather pay a $100.00 deductible or $3500.00 for a new system?

As your agent, rest assured I will keep you informed and provide you with an abundance of information to help make your home buying experience a great one!