Key Stages

• Getting Started -- starting out with your best foot forward.

• Finding a Home -- how to approach the MLS home search.

• Making an Offer -- formulating an offer and negotiations.

• Under Contract -- what happens once the offer is accepted?

• Preparing to Close -- important steps for a smooth closing.

• Closing -- in about one hour you will own your new home.

In many respects, the process of buying a home is comparable to that of buying a car. Deciding what you want in a home and matching this up with what you can afford to pay is similar to what you go through when you buy a car. The work of deciding between various loan -- or lease -- options is also quite comparable. In both cases, you'll find that what you can afford will depend on what types of financing you are able to qualify for or willing to accept. In both cases, it is wise to have a professional inspection to insure that you are making a smart purchase. And for both cars and homes, there are formal means of recording and transferring legal title. In fact, some people buy homes putting little more thought, care or effort into the process than they do when they buy a car. Many of these people come out just fine. However, some don't, so a higher standard of care is warranted in the home buying process.