There are many different kinds of mortgage programs available, not all are available at each lending institution. A good mortgage originator can help you evaluate which program is best for you by explaining the pros and cons of each program, and assessing your level of risk.

I can help you understand the steps you will need to take, and can refer you to a reputable mortgage broker or service.

There are also special home buying programs available from various organizations and many local governments that offer special home buying programs to help first-time home buyers and those in a lower income bracket. Get informed - you may be surprised to discover what you are eligible for!

Determine Your Wants and Needs for your future Home

Begin your home search by focusing on the locations where you want to buy. Make an amenities list; try to separate your wants and needs. Keep in mind you plans for the future: how long do you plan to live in the home you are searching for, will your family size be changing, will you be getting any new pets, current furniture that you want to keep, etc. Determine how much square footage you want, the minimum number of bedrooms and baths you need, etc. Knowing what you're looking for will not only help you focus your search but will also help your real estate broker understand your needs so that s/he can best assist you in the process.

Shopping for a Home

There are several avenues to take once you begin your home search. I, as your real estate broker, can supply you with listings, based on your search criteria; you may also look for property on my site on the internet; in the newspaper; or you or a friend might find an interesting home while driving around. Pass this information on to me and I will set up an appointment to show you the house. For some, it is important to see many houses, so that you can develop an understanding of the market, and get a solid idea of what is available in your price range.

When we start working together I prefer to work with you as a Buyer's Agent. That means I represent you in the transaction and you will have someone looking out for your interests. No more Buyer Beware. Like other professionals, I prefer to work with you under contract. This contract binds me as an agent to represent you in perhaps the most important purchase of your life. Although no retainer fee is necessary, written authorization is required prior to any research on any properties. I only get paid upon a successful sale, and then my fee comes from the proceeds of the sale. You will receive my full Confidentiality, Professional Guidance and Advice. I will represent you in For Sale By Owner situations as well.

A buyer agency contract creates legal fiduciary responsibilities between the buyer and the agent. The responsibilities are: Confidentiality in all matters; Reasonable care and diligence; Loyalty to the buyer's interests; Obedience to the buyer's wishes; and Disclosure of applicable information. Unless you and your real estate agent are working under a "buyer agency" contract, your real estate agent is: obligated to obtain the highest price for the seller, and serve the best interests of the seller, not the buyer.

The Home Inspection

The best investment you can make in your future home is to have a home inspection. Once you have made an offer on a home, you will need to schedule a home inspection, conducted by an independent authorized inspector. It is extremely import to hire a reputable inspector so that you know exactly what you are buying. Do not hesitate to ask friends, family, and co-workers for advice. If you are satisfied with the results of the inspection, then you can proceed to the Purchase and Sales agreement. If the inspector finds problems with the property, you may want to negotiate with the seller to lower the price, or to pay for certain repairs.

Homeowner's Insurance

Lenders require that you have homeowners insurance, to protect both your interests and theirs. Like everything else, be sure to shop around for insurance that fits your needs. I recommend that you begin looking for a homeowner's policy as soon as you have a signed Offer to Purchase.

Closing

Finally, you are ready for the closing. Be sure to read everything before you sign! You should have both your real estate broker and an attorney present at the closing to ensure that all is in order.