Discussing Real Estate Agent Services

Looking for a new home can be both thrilling and scary, but touring homes is mostly fun. You can, if you know what you're doing, have fun while making it worth your time when viewing homes. Here's what you need to know about taking a home tour, finding your dream home, and getting the most possible out of the experience.

Don't hesitate; jump in: You don't need to make an appointment or put any money down, so tour as many homes as you have time to. The sooner you see the home, the sooner you can take action if it turns out to be "the one." Another tip to follow, especially if you're dealing with a hot market, is to schedule your own personal viewing on the Thursday or Friday before the open house, since open houses usually mean that the home is new to the market. That move might allow you to get a jump on the competition.

Know what you can afford: Looking at homes outside your price limit is a waste of time, so make arrangements to get qualified for a loan to help you really zero in on appropriate homes in your price range. Knowing your numbers will also let you ask better questions at the open house about any updates and renovations, if you know the home price will leave you some wiggle (and renovation) room.

Know that your experience with viewing homes will grow: You might end up looking at dozens of homes before you get the hang of it, but practice will make perfect. You'll learn to spot features you love and hate, and you'll know almost before you walk in the home if it's your style or not. While it can be a bit overwhelming at first, eventually, you will become an expert at viewing homes.

Take notes and photos: Particularly if you are visiting a number of homes in a single day, photos and notes are a must-have. You want to focus on areas of concern, as well as what makes the home really stand out for you. Reviewing your notes will help refresh your memory about a particular house; for example, was that the house that had the strange crack in the ceiling? You can also note (or record) any questions you might have for a too-busy agent, and get in touch with them later.

Know the etiquette: Try to meet the agent on duty, and take a card and brochure, even if the home is crowded. Be sure to let the agent know if you are already working with an agent; it's the polite thing to do. If you end up buying the home, you may be looking at splitting the commission, and while this is perfectly common and okay, it's best to be up-front about it.