Some things to think about when buying a home

There is no “right” time to buy any more than there’s a right time to sell a home. The housing market just keeps right on rolling. Homes are bought and sold.

Changes in the marketplace don’t occur fast enough to make much of a difference in pricing. If you find that home you have always wanted and you are still not completely sure this is the “place,” you may want to take advantage of what is probably the best buy in your search — a real estate professional who can help you with that search.

Buying or selling that home can bring some trauma into your life during the process. It’s an emotional time and it is important that the REALTOR® you choose is both skilled and a good fit with your personality.

•Accept the fact that no house is ever perfect. Focus on what you want in your dwelling — the important things. Don’t ask for too many opinions as this route can lead you into some confusion. Friends mean well but they are not you.

•Don’t wait until you have found a home that you have to have and make an offer on it before getting approved for a mortgage. Know where you are in the financing process. The interest rates are still excellent.

•Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make your bid much less attractive to the sellers.

•Be sure to factor in your maintenance and repair costs, even if you are looking for a new home. There will be some costs.

•Choose the home you want because you love it — the area, the wonderful items you have always longed to have — you will know when it is right for you.

•One of the best buys in real estate is the REALTOR® you choose to help make this journey. They are excellent guides and are educated to keep you out of any problems.

•They are licensed and subscribe to a Code of Ethics, and take classes in real estate to keep current.

•Their clients are winners even before a sale is made. A REALTOR® is generally not paid a commission unless that sale is completed.

A bargain, this!