Where to Begin?
When you start looking for a home you might consider the following questions: In what basic area do you want to live? Do you need to be close to schools, shopping, or work? What kind of house would you like (need)? Are you looking for a particular style? How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want? Do you want a large or small yard? 
How much can you afford to pay down and for the monthly payments? With these things in mind, begin to check around.
Work with a REALTOR®
You'll want the bst possible information when you look for a home. Buyers who are working with a Realtor® are going to have a lot more insight into the market. We know the process of buying a home and can explain things to you in detail. We can help you determine how much you can afford. We can show you all properties you want to see and we know where schools, restaurants and shopping areas are located. When the time comes to make an offer, we'll help you complete the necessary paperwork and also help arrange financing through a mortgage lender. A Realtor® can guide you each step of the way; we'll answer your questions and help to make everything run as smoothly as possible. One important step for you to take is to get "pre-qualified" so you'll know the approximate price range you can afford. We'll introduce you to lenders who can help you with the paperwork and get your credit history. If you find errors on your credit report, you should take steps to correct them right away.
Begin a General Search
Have your Realtor® show you pictures of available properties. Talk about the pros and cons of different general areas, then begin looking at homes over a wide area. That will give you a good feel for the types of homes that are on the market and the prices you can expect. Once you've been through some areas, you'll be ready to narrow your search to a smaller area that seems right for you. Start saving money -- you'll need some cash on hand for your down payment and closing costs. Don't incur additional debt -- try to pay down your credit cards and don't apply for new ones! Wait to buy the furniture or the car after the house... and don't make any major purchases using credit.
Use this full set of Calculators to start planning your strategy.
Call me with any questions you may have -- or to start looking at homes right away!
Mike Stevenson, GRI
817-903-2221
