Choosing your real estate professional is, the most important decision you will make when buying property. These fundamental tips will help you find and purchase the home of your dreams more efficiently and safely. If you're a first-time buyer you can find more information here.

Top 12 Home Buying Mistakes:
1. Doing it Alone: The Buyer almost never has to pay a commission to their Buyer’s Agent.  Therefore, why not hire an Agent to do all of the work for you? Buying a house is a complex transaction. Your Agent will need to refer a dependable mortgage loan officer, home inspector, home insurer, escrow officer, title representative and contractors from various trades.

2. Misplacing Your Trust: No matter how much you like the agent, sellers, inspector, or the guy down the block who vouches for them, remember this is a business transaction. Your decision is binding. Verify information and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

3. Not Getting A Loan Pre-Approval FIRST: A thorough loan pre-approval lets you know exactly how much you can afford and need to borrow, along with the necessary down payment amount and the current interest rates.  New loan requirements change frequently.  Also, you have the opportunity to correct any credit report issues now, instead of being able to qualify for a higher interest rate because of credit report issues or even having your final loan approval denied.  Additionally, you have much more power as a Buyer with a Seller if you have a fully pre-approved loan.  Learn the financing basics. Know how to shop for a home loan that's right for you. Don't make major purchases or incur any additional debt until after your purchase.

4. Overbuying: You may qualify to borrow more, but can you really afford to? Every body handles their finances differently.  It is very uncomfortable to be financially strapped.  Analyze your monthly costs: debt, food, transportation, entertainment, and savings. Be sure to budget enough to cover moving, redecorating and maintenance costs. Allow for increases in ongoing expenses such as utilities and taxes.

5. Know What You NEED Versus What You WANT: Ask yourself what you're looking for in a home, before you shop.  Make a list of your needs and wants before you even look at homes.  Decide which items are a true need and which items are a want.

6. Betting on Future Resale Value: Don't automatically count on future appreciation.  Markets cycle up and down. Be prepared for the long term. Avoid buying a home that is significantly higher in price than neighboring homes, or the "most expensive home on the block". The lower surrounding home values will weaken your value.

7. Buyer’s Remorse: No home is perfect. There will always be surprises. Don’t let a few initial blips spoil the whole ride.

8. Be Prepared to View New Properties Quickly: Homes can sell quickly. Be ready to make prompt decisions. Be accessible when your Agent calls.

9. Waiting for the "Perfect" Home:  Again, no home is "perfect".  Don’t miss a great homes waiting for the perfect one!  There are usually many homes that can make good homes for you.

10. Relying on Oral Agreements: If it is agreeable, get it in writing and get it right. If the listing says the refrigerator is negotiable, and you want it to be included, get it in writing. Understand zoning regulations and Codes, Covenants & Restrictions (CC&R's).

11. Skipping the Fine Print: You need to understand what you’re signing. Don't be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something.

12. Making an Offer that is Difficult for the Seller to Accept: Submit a strong competitive offer.  Include a substantial earnest money deposit.  Try to minimize the number of contingencies.