All the right steps to buying your home

When you decide it is time to buy your home Maureen Staccato of Keller Williams Realty will suggest making a "wish list" of what features you would like to have in your home.

Before the home search begins, Maureen will want to know as much as possible about the features and amenities you desire. To help me better serve you, divide your preferences into "negotiable" and "non-negotiable." Here are some details to consider:

Exterior

Type of property (house, condominium, town home, loft)
Age of property
Preferences in architectural style
Number of stories
Type of foundation
Roof construction
Lot size and/or location
Landscape preferences (fencing, built-in sprinkler system)
Pool/spa
Garage or carport

Interior

Number of bedrooms
Number of bathrooms
Minimum square feet
Central air/heat
Wiring
Electrical or gas appliances
Security system
Basement/attic
Fireplace
Kitchen amenities
Formal dining room
Home office or study
Laundry room
Flooring preferences:
How much renovation would you be willing to do?
Must your home accommodate any special needs?

How can a real estate agent help me?

Whether you're in the market for a primary residence, an investment property or a second home, purchasing real estate involves many important considerations and decisions. Maureen can provide the focus, due diligence and expertise needed to help you find the home of your dreams.

A real estate professional will:

• Assist in determining how much house you can afford and help you get prequalified or preapproved for a loan.
• Simplify your search by helping you define home and neighborhood criteria.
• Screen new listings daily and alert you of homes that match your criteria.
• Keep you abreast of local market conditions, so you can make informed decisions.
• Gather in-depth detail on each home, schedule tours and point out the advantages and possible drawbacks of each property.
• Work with you in drafting an appropriate offer and serve as your representative when presenting it to the seller.
• Negotiate a contract that considers your goals and leads to a successful closing.
• Personally refer you to proven service providers, such as inspectors, appraisers, title companies, warranty providers, insurance agencies, attorneys, carpenters, movers and more.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: Real estate professionals can represent the buyer, the seller or both. When agents represent both parties, it is called dual agency. In some states, dual agency affects the real estate professional's fiduciary responsibilities to the seller. Keep in mind that real estate laws differ from state to state and even from locale to locale. For more in-depth answers, talk with Maureen Staccato of Keller Williams Realty and ask her about local practices.