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DO's

DO – Get a free credit report. You are entitled to a free credit report each year from each of the major credit reporting companies, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Or you can start at www.freecreditreport.com. There is usually a nominal charge to find out your credit score.

DO – Get pre-approval from a bank. That way you know what you can afford.

DO – Have a home inspector, title company, attorney, insurance company, etc. picked out and ready.

DO – Get statement of all closing costs early after contractual acceptance so you are prepared with cash needed to close.

DO – Know your dates and your responsibilities to the contingencies in the contract (inspections, mortgage approvals, etc.)

DO – Get a qualified home inspector (many states require licensed inspectors.)

DO – Ask if appliances or other personal property such as light fixtures, ceiling fans or window treatments are in fact included in the sale. You cannot simply assume they are.

DO – Hire a reputable real estate attorney.

DON’T

DON’T – Be afraid to ask questions.

DON’T – Get excited about a house in front of sellers.

DON’T – Be afraid to let your real estate agent or seller know that something is unacceptable. You can be assertive without being abrasive.

DON’T – Make decisions alone if you have a spouse or partner.

DON’T – Make an offer unless you are fully prepared to go through with it. Your offer may be accepted.

DON’T – Get caught up in minor details. They can force you or the seller to kill the deal. Know what is negotiable to you and what is not. There are always little things you can trade off in the negotiations.

DON’T – Pay more than you can afford. Remember, the mortgage is only part of the cost. There is still insurance, real estate taxes, repairs, lawn care, painting, upgrades, etc.

DON’T – Buy without a completed Seller’s Disclosure Statement and always use a reputable inspection company. You don’t want expensive surprises.

DON’T – Go to contract without an attorney.