With the $8000.00 home buyer tax credit, low interest rates, short sale listings and foreclosure listings NOW is a good time to purchase a home for residence or investment. Below are just a few things to keep in mind should you want to take the first step.

1) Get pre-approved for a loan. Sellers or banks do not want to consider
your offer unless you can prove your worth. Make sure to lock in that low interest rate.

2) If you are looking for a short sale the closing time could be long
such as 6+ months
and the price you offered and the price the seller accepted may not be
OK with the bank

3) Bank owned properties asking price is the discounted price. Banks
will offer the home at a reduced rate in order to attract investors and
first time home home buyers. The sale price maybe higher than the
original asking price

4) Pick a knowledgeable real estate agent you like and stick with them.
Loyalty to your agent will give you better service and loyalty back. If
you are shopping with every agent in town you will be duplicating
efforts. After all, all agents have access to the same data base