• Helping you determine how much you want to spend.
• Help define your housing priorities by discussing your specific needs, wants and desires. 
• Recommend the right resources to help you reach your goals.
• Research and obtain information about houses and neighborhoods to help you make informed decisions.
• Help you prepare for mortgage qualification.
• Help you negotiate the best possible price.

As we walk the road together please consider these Buying Tips:

• Even if the quality of a school district doesn't matter to you now, remember it might someday to another buyer.  Keep that same thought after the purchase and as you enhance your home through your years of ownership.  As you contemplate changes and enhancements always consider how saleable your "improvement" will be when it is time to put your home on the market.
• Two things can add to your peace of mind as you enter the final stages of home buying: home inspections and home warranties.
• Often times it is advisable to visit the home and neighborhood you are seriously considering at different times of day and / or evening and night time.  Get out of your car.  Walk the neighborhood.  Talk to whomever you meet.  Find out about how they like the neighborhood.  Likewise, once you have selected your home and are consider placing an offer, look the home over in different light conditions.  Also, it is a good idea to visit the home during rain or varying whether conditions. 
• Expect lower maintenance costs with a brand-new home.  Also, expect lower maintenance costs when the home is located in an "un-wooded" area.
• When interest rates are low, opt for a fixed mortgage.
• Pay attention to floor plans. Changing layouts of rooms later, can be costly.
• You can deduct on that years tax return points paid by either party on the purchase of your own residence.
• If the present owner has a title insurance policy less than 3 years old, you could have substantial savings by buying a reissue of that policy rather than a completely new one.
• Sellers tend to be more flexible in price the longer the home is on the market.
• Don't allow the media to influence your decision to purchase a Foreclosure property.  There are pro's and con's to purchasing foreclosure properties.  Foreclosures are not for everyone.      
• Buying a house whose style is uniquely individual tends to minimize, not maximize, its resale value because the house will appeal to a more limited audience of potential buyers.
• If you think you may need more space in the near future, be sure the house and lot will allow for expansion.
• Redoing a kitchen can be expensive. Be sure you know what you need and want before you buy.
• Before you buy a house that may have a wet basement problem, get a good unbiased diagnosis from a professional with moisture control experience. The solution could be costly.
• A roof that complements the style of a home and is carefully maintained adds to the home's visual appeal and its resale value.
• A light-colored roof reflects heat and is best in areas where air-conditioning is the greater energy user. In colder weather climates, a dark roof is preferable because it absorbs more heat. In temperate climates, a middle-range shade is best.
• The three most popular wall choices are brick, wood siding and stucco. About half of all home shoppers prefer brick for exterior walls; about one-third prefer wood siding; and about one-fifth prefer stucco.
• Stucco homes are often more difficult to sell.    
• Wood floors suggest warmth, quality and good taste and are an asset when it comes time to sell a house.
• Plant deciduous trees, shrubs and vines on south and west sides of the home to provide shade in the summer and sunshine in the winter. Remember trees enhance the beauty and value of a lot and house.  Always get a professional landscaper to suggest the most affective and efficient plan for your lot.

DON'T Make These Mistakes....
º    Don't buy an unusual home if you have to resell soon or within 5 years.
º    Never tell a Seller's broker how much you'll raise your offer for a particular house.
º    Be reserved when talking with a Seller or Seller's Agent.  Don't volunteer any information that could compromise the negotiation process.

If you are a First Time Home Buyer....
Click on Tips For First Timers

For more helpful advice and tips on Buying a Home.....
Click on Articles on Buying A Home