Getting started
Whether you are a first time buyer considering a starter home or a home owner looking to move up or downsize, the same strategy applies: consult with your REALTOR to define your wants and needs, determine what you can afford to buy, review your potential purchase costs and learn about market conditions.

Working with a REALTOR
A REALTOR's expert knowledge of housing stock, the community, schools and community services, taxes, zoning, transportation and future development plans will help you select a property that meets your needs.

What can I afford
Before you start looking at homes, you need to determine how much you can afford. Most people buying a home need to borrow a portion of the money from a bank or other lending institution.

Shopping for your home
Now that you've done your homework, it's time to go home shopping. Remember your wish list when you look at homes—keep in mind the priorities you defined. You might want to take notes or create a checklist of features to compare a number of homes.

Completing the transaction
Once your offer is accepted you will need to carry out a number of steps and fulfill certain legal requirements before the transaction can be completed.

Home Buyers’ FAQs
Each Buyer is unique with his or her own needs, circumstances and questions. Ask your REALTOR for further information or check this list of frequently asked questions and/or common real estate terms.

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