Before you begin to shop for a home, you can enhance your buying power by getting Pre-Approved or Pre-Qualified. This process can often be performed by telephone in less than an hour and it accomplishes several important goals. It will tell you how much house you can afford, what your monthly payments would be and what you will need for a down payment. When you are ready to make an offer, being Pre-Approved for a loan gives you a strong negotiating position.

You can begin your search online. This will save time since it can help you target homes that meet your criteria and narrow down the communities you would like to live in. Prioritize a list of features you want and use it as a guide, but remember that depending on your funding, you may need to make some compromises. Next, you can begin visiting homes. Your real estate salesperson will do additional searching, schedule appointments and accompany you on these visits. When comparing homes, make sure to look at all aspects of the property such as number of bedrooms and baths, available square footage, proximity to schools and conveniences, property taxes, renovations, and if there are any encumbrances.

This can be a difficult and trying time since both parties have different goals. In most cases it is better to have a real estate salesperson negotiate the offer. If you have any personal interaction with the homeowner, don't give out any information about your current housing status, financial status or feelings about the property.

After an offer is accepted, a home inspection is scheduled. Inspectors are looking for problems such as a leaky roof, radon gas, termite damage, foundation problems, cracks in the walls, plumbing or electrical issues, or faulty appliances. Your agent will assist you in responding to the inspection report and asking for reasonable repairs. A second round of negotiation can occur at this time. This is your chance to make sure all the items are fixed to your satisfaction.

The final step is the closing when all those involved come together to complete the sale. Before closing your salesperson will make sure all necessary paper work is complete for the mortgage, title work, homeowners insurance and any other items required under local and state laws.