BUYING IN TODAY'S MARKET

If your in the market to purchase a home, there has not been a better time to do so.  You already know that it's a "Buyer's Market" and you already know that there's a plethora of inventory for which to choose.

If you're among the masses, you have already begun your search on the internet.  Approximately, 90% of buyers surf the net before contacting an agent to work with.  You've probably discovered some very interesting homes, in neighborhoods you'd like to live in, at prices that are now attainable to you.

Next step is to contact a REALTOR with whom you are comfortable working with.  Ask them for some recommendations for a LOCAL lender.  Go speak with them and obtain a preapproval letter which will outline conditions of getting your mortgage and what price you can afford to purchase.

Then, let your REALTOR know that you are ready to go looking for the perfect home for you.  Give a copy of the letter to the agent for their file and let them start arranging appointments for homes that fit within your criteria.

When you've found your dream home, have your agent find homes that have recently closed, and make a good offer based on what homes are selling for.  Don't worry about stealing a home.  Make a fair offer and realize that you are purchasing a home, not a pair of shoes!

Your agent will guide you through the process.  There's time frames for home inspections and they can recommend several good ones to you.  Don't try to save a few hundred dollars by skipping this step.  It is well worth the investment of around $400 to know what you're about to buy or if you should back out of the contract.

There's home owners insurance for you to shop for.  There's a survey to be ordered.  Title searches to be done to make sure that there's no judgements or hidden liens on the property.  You agent should be continuing to guide you through.

Meanwhile, you need to be packing up your belongings!  You've got a new home to move to!  Hey, and don't forget to call to get the utilities put on in your name. 

Congratulations, you are a new home owner!