Buying Strategies

• What are some tips every home buyer should know to get started?
• What would you recommend as the best first step in home buying?
• What is the single most important rule in house hunting?
• What are the essential steps every first-time buyer should know?
• Are there any inside tips on down payments for first-time buyers?
  

Shopping for an Agent

• What are some questions I should ask a prospective agent?
• What can a real estate agent do for me that I can’t do for myself?
• I’ve heard about 'agency.' Who does a real estate agent really work for?
• Who pays the fee of a buyer's agent?
• Buying a home directly from the owner will save on the cost of the house, right?
  

Choosing a Neighborhood

• What clues should I look for in checking out a neighborhood?
• What do real estate agents mean when they say the three most important factors in selecting a house are 'location, location, location'?
• Why is it smart to size up the schools before buying a house?
• Is it better to buy in a new home area or a resale community?
  

Finding a Home

• What advice would you give to help me decide between my two favorite houses?
• Beyond the house itself, what should I look for in the property?
• How can a I be certain I’m getting what I think I’m paying for?
• Are there guidelines to how much a buyer should offer?
  

Negotiating the Contract

• Should I ask for a home inspection before I buy?
• What happens after I present my offer?
• How does a 'drive-by appraisal' help me bargain better?
• What are some inside tips to close a deal if the seller won’t budge on price?
• We’re in a competitive market. What can I do to make my offer look better than another buyer’s offer?
  

Closing for Buyers

• What do I need to know about closing on my home?
• What are some typical closing costs?
• We’re a little tight on cash. How can we shift some settlement costs to reduce out of pocket expenses?
• What are some sources for out-of-pocket cash to pay closing costs?
• What should I expect at the final 'walk through?'
• Once a settlement date is set, can it be changed?
  

Special Topics

• What is earnest money?
• What is a contingency?
• Which settlement expenses can buyers deduct on their taxes?
• How do I buy a house at auction?