Follow steps to buy...

Too many times, buyers are looking to find exactly the house that appeals to the taste and decor they like. It has been said over and over again . . .Location . . . location . . . location is the most important aspect of a real estate purchase!

If you are looking for a home, the procedure is simple.

First, find the general location you like. Once the general location is discovered, concentrate on neighborhoods and search for one that appeals to you in price, location and appearance. Drive this neighborhood in the morning, the evening and at night. View the homes within and surrounding this area for curb appeal. Neighborhoods that are well kept tend to hold their value.

Listen for noise from trains, planes, factories etc. Sometimes, these nuisances do not show up except at certain times of the day. Boats and cars parked on the road and off to the side of home begin to "downgrade" the neighborhood unless the lots are big enough to hide these things away from the house. When you are convinced by driving the area that this is the neighborhood for you, then the fun begins!

• Tour each and every house that is on the market in this area.
• Find a floorplan that suits you and your lifestyle.
• Try to avoid the distractions of fixable cosmetic features, such as paint, wallpaper, and carpet.
• Floorplans are difficult to change and location, of course, is impossible to change.
• Do not focus on furniture that is in the home but consider the size of the furniture to picture your own items in the house. Study the plan and know what you can or cannot live with.
• Pick your three favorites homes and ask your agent to do a market analysis of comparable homes nearby that have sold, that are under contract and are actively listed.

You too, can research on the Internet but do make a point of having a professional give you their opinion. When you study the market, it is then that you will see some consistency in the value.

The next step is making an offer. Do not insult the seller but ensure your agent can support the offer with evidence of nearby sales. Have your agent show the seller or seller's agent the competition and let him or her know that you have other options. If you do not get your favorite for a price you feel is fair, then go to your second choice and keep going until you are happy with the house and the price. Once closed, this house becomes your home.

Check your local lenders for new "down payment assistance programs" that have just been made available.