Plan before you start your search

Thinking about buying a home? Purchasing a home can be an exciting time, but it can also be a stressful. Thatʼs why most consumers turn to a REALTOR® for help.

A REALTOR® has the training and expertise to guide you through all aspects of the transaction. They can help you find the right home for you and negotiate the best purchase price possible. Theyʼll also take care of the small details so you donʼt have to worry about them.

Before sitting down with a REALTOR®, here are a few things to think about that can make the buying process a more pleasurable task. What are your priorities? Get a good idea of what youʼre looking for before you start you search. Where and what you buy will affect your life for as long as you own the house, so getting your priorities in order should be number one on your list.

Create a list of everything you want and need in a home. This list of features will be a valuable tool in assisting you and your REALTOR® in your quest for the perfect home.

If you need four bedrooms, put that on the list. If you want a garage or a workshop or a pool, add that to the list too. Remember – you can always refine your list later on with your REALTOR®.

Location, location, location - Consider all aspects of your life when pinpointing the location of your new home.

Housing type - Give some thought to what kind of home suits your lifestyle the best. Resale homes are more likely to have established lawns and gardens…and they will probably have done all their shrinking and settling. But they may require repairs and the decorating may not be to your taste. Only REALTORS® have access to the Multiple Listing Service®.