| Shop for a Home |
Be prepared for highs and lows. Houses don't
always measure up to their advertisements, but you may find
a real charmer without many listed features.
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Decide whether or not you want to
work with an agent.
If you work with an agent, make sure they know your priorities.
Follow the Know What You Want checklist to identify them, and
give your agent a copy. If you look on your own, you can get
real estate listings online, as well as through local newspapers,
home-sale magazines and real estate offices. |
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Take a checklist of Questions to Ask When You
See the House
Get all the information you need to compare and contrast later.
A beautiful Victorian may be a favorite until you revisit your
notes and discover it needs new plumbing and wiring. |
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When you find a home that interests you, research
the neighborhood.
Use MSN House & Home to learn more about the area. Go on
your own at different times of the day, and talk to neighbors
and local businesses to get a feel for what it's like to live
there. If everything checks out, you're ready to Prepare Your
Offer. |