BUYING

FINDING THE RIGHT AGENT

You want to find the right home, in the right location, at the right price - and you want to do it quickly, with minimum hassle. The best way to do that is to work with a professional realtor who understands your wants and needs, your time frame and your financial boundaries.

Why work with an agent?

You'll save time. An agent can pinpoint homes that fit your needs and dismiss those that don't.

You benefit from an experienced negotiator. Your agent will manage your offers and
counter-offers, ensuring that you get the best possible price for your home.

You'll get the right information. Your agent knows the neighbourhood and can give you accurate information on local real estate values, taxes, utility costs, services and amenities.

You can always count on great advice. Because your agent is familiar with the entire home purchasing process, he or she can advise you of your legal and financial options, and recommend appraisal, home inspection and contracting services.

Choose an agent who understands your needs

Here are a few questions to ask to help you determine if an agent is right for you:

* Will you be representing my interests?
* Do you have access to MLS information?
* Will you provide market evidence to support the price?
* Will you look after closing and possession details?
* Can you be contacted at any time?

WORKING WITH AN AGENT

Let your real estate agent do the searching for you. The best buys aren't in the newspaper ads; most great opportunities are on "hot sheets" that are available every morning to salespeople with access to MLS information.

An agent's job is to:

Provide information on the property and the area
Negotiate a price and terms that are agreeable to both buyer and seller
Help arrange a source of financing

As a homebuyer, you must work with your agent to find the home that's right for you. Communication is key - tell your agent what you want, and be specific.

Offer a detailed description of your property needs and wants. If you will absolutely not consider a house without a hardwood floor, say so. And if air conditioning is a "nice to have" rather than a "must have," communicate that, too.

Be specific about where you want to live. If you refuse to live outside a certain area, it might take longer to find you a home, but your agent will know not to waste your time with anything not in your chosen neighbourhood.

Tell your agent what you can afford. He or she can help you get a pre-approved mortgage so you know for sure what your price range will be.

Communicate your likes and dislikes for each property you see. It will help your agent narrow down the possibilities.

Commit to one salesperson.
Respect and perform the terms of the purchase agreement.
Keep an open mind. Agents know about those charming little areas that you've never even heard of. You might find your dream home in a completely unexpected place.

CHOOSING A NEIGHBOURHOOD

You're not just buying a home - you're buying a location. And even the most perfect house won't feel right if you're in the wrong neighbourhood. Educate yourself about the area so you'll choose wisely - and end up being happy with your decision.

Are you close to shopping and recreation?
Being close to stores, parks, recreational facilities, a post office and dry cleaners will save you time. Do people in the area take care of their homes? Explore the neighbourhood, keeping an eye out for signs of neglect (overgrown lawns, houses in need of paint, trash and junked appliances littering yards). A run-down neighbourhood can drive down your property value.

Are there schools nearby?
If you have children, the proximity and quality of schools is key. Some schools will provide data (i.e. average test scores) that can determine quality. Talking to neighbours with children can be helpful, too.

Is there good access to transportation?
Living near public transport and/or major highways can mean an easier commute to work.

Is it safe?
Check with the local police department - they may be able to provide statistics about break-ins or other crimes.

Will the home increase in value over time?
Homes in some neighbourhoods appreciate faster than others. Research the selling prices of homes in over the past decade or so to predict future trends. Your agent may be able to provide helpful data.

Is it quiet?
Listen for traffic noise, barking dogs, airplanes and any other noises that might bother you. Return to the neighbourhood at different times of the day to get an accurate impression.