Before you start working with a bank, mortgage banker, mortgage broker or credit union, get as much information as you can. Check their backgrounds carefully. Also, get an estimate of all possible fees.
Get pre-approved
If there is a problem getting pre-approval because of your credit rating, get copies of your credit reports and determine if anything on the report is inaccurate or over seven years old, which means it must be removed.
Look for a neighborhood first
A great home in an undesirable neighborhood (for any of several reasons) is not very worthwhile from a quality of life or from a home value perspective. Learn as much as you can about the neighborhood (online, from visits or at local libraries) and make sure your needs are met.
Make a wish list
Whether you are going to open houses on your own or using a real estate broker, make up a list of what you would most like in a new home and prioritize it so you can determine what is most important and which items you are comfortable sacrificing.
Have an inspection done
Have an engineer or independent home inspector inspect the home, including the roof, basement, grounds, heating, pipes, and so on. Make your offer contingent on an inspection.
