Not just for

Not just for "First Time" Home Buyer's

Whether you have spent years saving and preparing to buy a home, or your an "experienced" home buyer looking for a retirement home, the questions around the purchase of a home feel endless.

You can find the answers - peace of mind - by working with someone with experience at handling the sale from beginning to close.

Tips to help you with the process of becoming your own Landlord:

Prequalify for a Loan
Being prequalified for a loan determines how much house you can afford. It also allows you to move more swiftly when you find the right house, especially when you aren't the only interested buyer.

Shop for mortgage rates & terms.
A difference of even half a percentage point can make a huge difference in how much you pay over the life of a loan. For example: The difference in the monthly payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8% vs. 7.5% is about $35 per month. Over 30 years that's $12,600.

Using a buyer's agent
A buyer agent is legally responsible for representing the buyer's interest in a real estate transaction. Generally, the buyer agent is compensated by the seller at the close of your property. There are some limitations to using a buyer agent, however. Before you decide let a me explain the advantages and disadvantages of using buyer agency.

Features that help or hurt resale value
In some areas, a swimming pool actually detracts from a home's value and makes the home harder to sell. In neighborhoods with tow car, attached garages, a single-car or detached garage may impact the home sale and future value. I can point out features that hurt as well as those that help resale value.

Rate the houses your tour
After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system with which will help you narrow the field down to the house that's best for you.