House Hunting

You’ve decided to take the plunge and buy a new home. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a first-time buyer, getting ready to start house hunting for new real estate can be a daunting task. Is Now the Right Time to Buy? will give you insight as to whether this really is the best time to be getting into the real estate market while How to Prepare will start you off on the right foot.

Before you begin looking, you need to figure out just what it is that you are looking for in a home. Identifying Priorities will help you figure out what is most important to you in a home while Needs vs. Wants will aid you in narrowing down your search even more. If you’re just not sure about moving, then take a look at Where Will You Be in 5 to 7 Years. This article offers some great tips for those undecided about buying. And don't forget to look into your future.

Now that you know what you want in your home, what about outside that home? Location Location Location explains just what these three words mean to a home buyer. Of course, your area is also important, so take a look at Choosing a Neighborhood for advice on finding the best place to live. Speaking of neighborhoods, Looking Beyond the House has a list of other items to check out when you view a house.

As you look at more and more homes, it can be difficult to keep straight which you liked and which you didn’t. This is why our buyer’s journal will serve you as a handy reference tool as you search. Just print it out before you view your next home.

Many house hunters get easily frustrated when they view home after home that just isn’t right. A Home Without Regret will help you understand the importance of stepping back from your search while There Will Always be Others reminds you that you’re dream home could be right around the corner.

Once you’ve found that home, it’s time to determine how much it is worth. Part of this value will be established during the home inspection. Inspect Before You Buy explains why it is worthwhile to take a look around your potential new home with a professional rather than just wait for the summary report. If you can’t get a home inspector right away, then be sure to look for these 18 red flags.

Once you have completed the inspection step, it is time to put in an offer, so get ready to bid. For negotiation tips, take a look at The Negotiating Game.