Real Estate 101

Buying or selling real estate is not a simple process. We've compiled a series of guides to help you educate yourself on the process.

Information for Buyers

For most American's the purchase of their home represents the largest finincial committment they will ever make. Finding and buying the perfect home, however, isn't just about the money. It is about location, schools, neighbors, amenities, and all the other intangibles that make an ordinary house on the market into your home.

We've listed the basic steps in the home buying process and provided link to more specific information to help:

Or, if you just want quick links to some of our more useful documents:

Home buying wish list - Clearly define and communicate what you want before you begin your search.
Home search check list - A handy sheet to record your impression of a house.

Information for Sellers

Selling your home can be both an exhilarating and exhausting process. Your home needs to be thoroughly cleaned and audited for possible minor and major repairs. You need to interview and select the agent that you feel can represent you best...and you’ll need to be patient! Real estate transactions take time and can vary greatly depending on your local market.

It is important to learn about the process and the pitfalls of selling your home, before you begin. Here are some resources:

Common Questions - about selling and preparing your house for sale.
Making Repairs - not every repair or remodel will result in a corresponding rise in your home's sale price. Make repairs and upgrades that do.
Selecting the Right Agent - a few things to help guide your decisions.
Appraisals and Market Value - before you set a price, see what the experts say.
Determining a Price - setting the right price makes all the difference.
Property Disclosure - you are required by law to list all issues and facts that will materially affect the value of the home you are selling.
Escrow & Closing Costs - many different parties need to be paid for their services at the closing. This pages lists some of the associated costs.
Negotiating the Best Price - Are there secrets to good negotiating? How exactly is the final price determined?