1. Find a real estate agent that’s simpatico. Homebuying
is not only a big financial commitment, but also an
emotional one. It’s critical that the agent you choose is
both skilled and a good fit with your personality.

2. Remember, there’s no “right” time to buy, any more
than there’s a right time to sell. If you find a home now,
don’t try to second-guess the interest rates or the housing
market by waiting. Changes don’t usually occur fast enough
to make that much difference in price, and a good home won’t
stay on the market long.

3. Don’t ask for too many opinions. It’s natural to want
reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas
will make it much harder to make a decision.

4. Accept that no house is ever perfect. Focus in on the
things that are most important to you and let the minor
ones go.

5. Don’t try to be a killer negotiator. Negotiation is
definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to
“win” by getting an extra-low price may lose you the
home you love.

6. Remember your home doesn’t exist in a vacuum.
Don’t get so caught up in the physical aspects of the
house itself—room size, kitchen—that you forget such
issues as amenities, noise level, etc., that have a big
impact on what it’s like to live in your new home.

7. Don’t wait until you’ve found a home and made an
offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate
insurance availability, and consider a schedule for
moving. Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of
unresolved issues will make your bid much less
attractive to sellers.

8. Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post-
home buying budget. Even if you buy a new home, there
will be some costs. Don’t leave yourself short and let
your home deteriorate.

9. Accept that a little buyer’s remorse is inevitable and
will probably pass. Buying a home, especially for the first
time, is a big commitment, but it also yields big benefits.

10. Choose a home first because you love it; then think
about appreciation. While U.S. homes have appreciated
an average of 5.4 percent annually over from 1998 to
2002, a home’s most important role is as a comfortable,
safe place to live.

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