Buyer's Checklist

Real estate agents and lenders can help with this.

Look for the best rates and terms and a good-faith estimate of closing costs. Your real estate agent can assist with this.

You won’t waste time looking at houses you can’t afford. Plus, a preapproval letter will demonstrate your viability as a buyer.  Many listing agents require a pre-approval letter in order to accept an offer.

An agent, who will be paid by the seller, can do a lot of the legwork for you. They will help negotiate on your behalf with the listing agent as well as supply you with valuable tools to help you make the right and most competitive offer.

Investigate issues like crime rate, schools, local services, proximity to museums or other institutions that are important to you, commuting distance, ethnic diversity, and property taxes.

Divide it into must-haves and like-to-haves.

Go to open houses, and use your agent. Print out a checklist of things to look for in each home you tour.

But it should be contingent on the results of a home inspection and your ability to secure a mortgage.

To find a qualified inspector, ask for recommendations, or search for a certified inspector.  Ask for and check references.

An attorney will help you decide whether you want to proceed with the deal, before signing a contract.