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Get help.
Hire a REALTOR® to get the most for you money. It pays to have
someone looking out for your interests
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Get
pre-approved. Save yourself the time and grief of looking at
houses you can't afford.
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Money
matters. If you're considering a mortgage, shore up your
credit and get a copy of your credit report.
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Determine how large your mortgage can be.
Explore different loan options to determine what is best for you.
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Calculate the hidden costs. Property taxes,
insurance, maintenance and association fees can impact your wallet
over time.
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Don't be house poor.
Double and triple check
to be sure you haven't maxed yourself out on the cost of your home
and left nothing for maintenance, etc.
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Make a commitment.
Commit yourself to your
home for at least a couple of years before making your next move.
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Decide what (and where) you want to buy.
Prioritize your needs (i.e., location, schools, amenities).
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Consider your re-sale value. Even if you don't
have school-aged kids, a strong school district is a good thing.
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Do your homework. Bid based on sales trends of
similar homes in the neighborhood.