1. Hiring A Realtor
   1. when you are buying a house, would you like the Realtor to represent you or the seller?
   2. do you know, that only when you have signed "Purchaser Agreement" with your Realtor, he is representing and working for you exclusively?
   3. demand the "Agency Relationships Explained" brochure before signing anything.
2. Mortgage Pre-Approval
   1. why would you like to go shopping without money in your pocket?
   2. having mortgage pre-approval in advance gives you financial peace of mind as well as good understanding of financial aspect of the real estate transaction, and very important negotiating asset.
   3. It is FREE without obligation or commitment on your side.
3. Property Selection
   1. your hired Realtor will help you determine the best type and style of your home.
   2. use his expertise to determine the location, since it is the most important aspect.
   3. always keep in mind, that some time in the future you will be selling this home you are looking for now.
4. Drive-by List
   1. try to determine what you prefer, your Realtor selling you the house HE picked based on what you told him, or perhaps...
   2. ... you would like to have opportunity to pick the houses to preview yourself.
   3. using drive-by list provided by your Realtor, you may pick homes for viewing that are in the preferable neighborhoods for you.
5. Showings
   1. once you are in the house, let your Realtor do the talking.
   2. if you really like the house, do not show it in front of the seller.
   3. always remember: "there is no perfect house out there", and sometimes you must compromise a little.
6. Offer to Purchase
   1. once you found the house you like, do not hesitate to put an offer on it.
   2. the Realtor you hired will advise you on the current market price in the area.
   3. make sure you understand all the terms in the "Agreement of Purchase and Sale".
7. Completion - Moving Day
   1. make sure to determine in advance with your lawyer how much money you need to close the deal.
   2. make sure the water, gas, etc. companies are notified that you are taking possession of new home.
   3. check with your lawyer when exactly you pick up the keys, so you can coordinate you moving time.

Knowing your "Seven Steps to Home Ownership" and your "abc's", feel free to contact me and discuss the best possible approach to your "Home Ownership" since it is the most important decision in your life.