| Searching For a Home |
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| Economic Climate |
| First, get up to speed on the economic climate and mood in your targeted area. Take note of local industries or seasonal peculiarities. Perhaps a major employer is moving into the area or there are plans to build a prison, airport or expand the business districts. Knowing these kinds of things will help you strategize effectively. |
Real Estate Agents
Begin your search by enlisting the services of a real estate professional. A real estate agent will save you both time and effort. The more specific you can be, the better. Communicate your requirements to your agent by providing your "Buyer's Desires" checklist. To locate a real estate professional in your area, enter your ZIP code or enter a city and state. |
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| City, State (2-letter abbreviation) |
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| Home Listings On-line |
| Spending your time "on-line" searching sites that offer homes "For Sale" will save you time. On-line information is usually updated daily and is the most current. If you have driven by a "For Sale" sign and remember the agency listing the property, going directly to that Agency's site may provide additional information about the Neighborhood (e.g. Census Data, Median HousingPrice, Schools). If you're just beginning your search, consider The National Association of Realtors®site Realtor.com this site brings together the largest collection of home listings throughout the US. |
| For Sale Signs and Newspaper Ads |
| Once you have zeroed in on a neighborhood, you may want to drive around and note the number and the locations of "For Sale" signs. Pick up the local newspaper to get a taste of the area. This will help you get a sense of the local housing market. Visit the places you would normally visit on your day off, whether that is the Coffee Shop, Hardware Store, Softball Field, Grocery Store... |
| Evaluation Checklist |
| Use our Buyer's Desires - Wish List. To keep an accurate record of the houses you encounter along the way, keep a checklist handy and evaluate each house as you do your walk-through. This way, you won't forget what you liked and disliked about certain properties - and you'll be rating them all based on common criteria. |
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. Some products may not be available in all states.