Buying a home in today’s market can be both frightening and beneficial.  The number one tip for buying a home in today’s market is “be prepared”.  Knowledge has always represented power and it is so true when buying a home.  The more information you have about the current market the better off you will be.

Another important part about buying a home is “finances”.  You must have your finances in order before you start your search for a home.  A good mortgage lender will walk you through all the details regarding your finances and applying for a mortgage.  Beware, not all mortgage loan officers are knowledgeable or care about you.  Get a referral of someone that one of your friends used or someone you know.  Also, shop around for the best rate and ask about what other fees they charge.  Some lenders surprise you at the closing and then your options are limited and your back against the wall at that point.

Find a good real estate agent; one that is loyal and cares about you and what you want.  One way to tell a good agent is by the way they listen.  Listening is a key factor for an agent – listen to hear what the buyer is saying.  Although the home buying process can be complicated and stressful, let someone help you that knows the business.

They say real estate is a cycle but this cycle is not like the others.  Get professional help from a real estate agent that has been in the business for at least 10 years or more.  The longer an agent has been in the business the better; they have been through many cycles of real estate’s up’s and down’s.

For more information, please contact me at 732-759-0466 or send me an email to Diane@DianeKaplan.com.