1. Find a reputable, knowledgeable, honest & caring real estate agent:  Ask friends & family, go to open houses, when calling off of signs give the agent a chance, maybe that home is not the one for you, but that agent may be.
2. There is nothing like a face to face meeting:  Once you interview a few agents, decide which one is right for you.  As no 2 people are alike neighter will two agents.  First and foremost your personalities should "click."  If you do not fee comfortable, then there is no point.  No matter how experienced that agent may be, Your comfort level is most important, go with your gut feeling.  Once you choose the agent, and have a clear understanding of representation, a lot of the stress will be lifted from your shoulders.
3. Loan: Time to get pre-approved.  Do you have a bank you deal with, or ask your agent to make some suggestions, or friends and family that have recently purchased or refinanced.
4. First time home buyers: If you are renting and are under a lease, It is crucial you relay the terms of your lease to your agent or attorney. 
5. Start Viewing Properties:  Many sellers request buyers remove their shoes, if possible, wear slip on shoes, and since you will most likely see quite a few homes in one day, have pen and paper ready to take notes.  Look beyond the furnishings & decoration. Pay attention to the location, Major items; roof, furnace, c/a, concrete, room sizes, etc. 
6. Writing the Offer: You have found the place, now, is it worth it? Review comparables with your agent and decide on the offer.  Purchase price and terms have been negotiated, contracts signed & initialed, earnest money delivered.
7. Attorney Review:  You or your agent should forward the contract to your attorney for review. 
8. Inspection: You have chosen to have a professional inspetion of the property (at your cost).  The home inspector is not only there to find flaws in the property, but also to educate you and inform you of  operations.
9. Loan Application: The attorney review is complete, the inspection issues, if any, resolved.  As you have already been pre-approved, the remaining conditions would most likely be the appraisal, employment verification and various small items.
10. Final Walk thru & Closing: You will walk the property with your agent, make sure everything is as it was, if any repairs were to be done, verify & go to Closing which the attorneys, Lender and Title Company have all confirmed with you, the seller, and agents. Sit, sign, transfer money, paper & keys.

Don't forget to wear comfortable slip on shoes, if possible,

CONGRATULATIONS
The information supplied herein is for information only & not meant to be used in lieu of seeking professional advice as each situation is unique.

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