Homebuyers have many questions about the process of buying a home. These questions often touch on similar topics: "How much money should I put down?" "What type of inspections should I have?" "What is a Sales Agreement?" --"I'm pre-qualified -- does that mean I'm pre-approved for a mortgage? Here's a list of helpful hints to make you a more informed buyer and help you avoid problems in your home-buying process:

•  ALWAYS GET PRE-APPROVED FOR YOUR MORTGAGE BEFORE YOU SIGN A SALES AGREEMENT -- but understand that pre-approved is not the same as pre-qualified. If you get pre-qualified, it means that you are given an estimate as to the amount that you may qualify for, this is just an estimate and the information is not verified. If you get pre- approved , it means that a mortgage company is guaranteeing you a mortgage up to a certain amount as long as the property you select is appraised (or valued) for the proper amount by an independent appraiser. If you are pre-approved, you will have a stronger bargaining position with the Seller because you already have a commitment from a mortgage company.

•  ALWAYS SEE AN ATTORNEY BEFORE YOU SIGN A SALES AGREEMENT OR ANY CONTRACT. A Sales Agreement is a contract to purchase a property. When you sign the Sales Agreement you are legally bound to purchase the property according to the terms in the Sales Agreement. It is very important to understand the entire Agreement and what the implications will be for you. Never let anyone tell you that you cannot have an Agreement reviewed by an attorney. If there is a problem with your Sales Agreement, the time to address it is before you sign.

•  ERNEST MONEY. When making a down payment on a home, pay only an amount of money you feel comfortable with, preferably the lowest amount acceptable to the seller. Remember that money will remain in an escrow account where, in most cases, it will not be earning you any interest! Keep your money in your account until the settlement date.

•  ALWAYS GET THE PROPERTY INSPECTED. Most mortgage companies will require a terminte/pest inspection. Whether to get a home inspection, however, is your choice. Get one . A home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make. Do not take a chance that there will be a problem down the road. A qualified home inspector is trained to look for certain problems that even the most observant homebuyer would miss. He or she may even be able to give you a rough idea of how much it will cost to repair any defects that are found. Accompany the home inspector during his or her inspection and ask plenty of questions.

•  STAY INVOLVED AND IN TOUCH. Often a buyer will come to me at the last minute asking for help because someone failed to do something properly. It is your home and your money at stake. The realtor, the home inspector, the mortgage company and your attorney are all people who are working for you -- keep in touch with them. Understand what services they will provide and make sure you get your money's worth!

Buying a home is an exciting event, one that does not have to be frustrating and stressful. Our staff is accessible by phone or email to assist you. Ask questions, get involved, and don't let buying your dream house turn into a nightmare.