A BUYERS LIST OF MUST-HAVES

This real estate market is not for the faint of heart. Competition has made negotiating an art form. If you are considering purchasing a home, be certain that you approach your purchase with every possible bit of ammunition you can muster. Here is a list of the "must have's" in this market:

• An experienced REALTOR
• An experienced REALTOR
• An experienced REALTOR
• A lender who is responsive and knowledgeable...this does NOT necessarily mean your best friend or your uncle.
• The very best loan for which you can qualify. FHA, while wonderful, is the first offer to be eliminated in a multiple offer situation. If you can go conventional, DO!
• If you must go FHA, consider finding homes that have been on the market a while. There will be less, if any competition and you will have a seller who is much more motivated.
• Have as much money saved as possible in case that appraisal doesn't come in. You will be able to make up the difference between the appraised amount and the offered amount if you really want the house.
• Be informed. Listen to your REALTOR. They have been in the trenches, working this market. They know what it is going to take to get you that house. As was mentioned first, negotiating has become a true art form in this market and you need someone who understands what it is going to take to make that home your own.

This is a tough market. There are far too few homes to purchase and far too many buyers that want them. Be ready for the possibility that you may not get the first house you write an offer on. But, don't give up...hang in there and the reward will be your perfect home!