Buying a home is the largest investment that the average person makes in their lifetime. It's also one of the wisest investments. The following are necessary steps in the home buying process.

Get approved for a mortgage. By getting approved for financing before contracting on a home you will have greater leverage in negotiating.

Know what you want. Have a clear and realistic idea of your wants and needs. Our web site will help you with information on neighborhoods, schools, financing, etc.

Select an agent. Make sure it is someone familiar with the community you have chosen. And then....

Have the agent represent you. The services provided by a good buyer's agent, through the use of a Buyer Representation Agreement, go far beyond just finding the right house. They will:

Negotiate on behalf of the buyer Provide an analysis of property value Recommend and assist in securing financing Research selected property to identify any problems Advise on structuring an appropriate offer Provide access to the entire market of available homes Assist in finding needed third-party services

Check out our incentive program.

Make a written offer with a deposit. Your buyer agent will help you in determining what the offer should be, but always make it contingent on a satisfactory home inspection. When all contingencies have been satisfied you can then….

Go to settlement. Your agent will give you a walk-through prior to settlement noting any problems that were not corrected, and attend settlement with you.