1.  Find the right representative - SUE WILTSIE, Sales Representative
Even if you’re not quite ready to buy, I can offer a wealth of information, and can often offer ‘scoops’ on local developments you might not have know about otherwise.  Speak to me first and I'll help to guide you right from the start.

2.  Find out what your price range is
Online mortgage calculators are a good place to start, but as you get closer to being ready to buy, there is no substitute for a written mortgage pre-approval.  Just speaking to your lender is an extremely worthwhile venture – this is the only way to really get an in-depth picture of your overall financial picture and to discover exactly what you can reasonably afford to spend on a home (and possibly on renovating).

3.  Find out what your local market looks like
The internet can be incredibly valuable in doing preparatory research.  Start with Sue Wiltsie – I can immediately start e-mailing you real estate listings that may interest youThis will give you a better idea of what is available and the prices of homes with the features that appeal to you.   

4.  Find out what your true needs and wants are
Compose a needs/wants list that takes into consideration: location, price range, number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms, style of home, basement (finished/unfinished), etc.

5.  Find your dream home!
Once you’re ready to act, you may be surprised by how quickly you can make a decision.  Armed with your pre-approval, a little market knowledge, and your needs/wants list, together we'll go house shopping, and when you see ‘the house’, we'll be ready to put in an offer. 

With the right team behind you, it really can be that easy!

Your Realtor - Sue Wiltsie, Sales Representative
As your realtor, I serve as your agent - representing your best interests.  It is important that you clarify what type of property meets your interests so that I can notify you immediately once a new property is listed that meets your parameters.  With first time home buyers, sometimes it is necessary to see several homes to help determine your likes and dislikes.  Together we can locate your next purchase. I can also recommend other professionals to join our team, (mortgage broker, lawyer, home inspectors, etc.) taking more of the responsibility off of your shoulders.

Lender / Mortgage Broker
Having the right backer can be extremely important – it is your money we’re talking about after all! Make sure that your lender and financial representative is someone with whom you feel comfortable, and be wary of any lender who promises you more than you think you can reasonably afford. Your lenders may or may not require an independent appraisal, and typically will make arrangements for the appraisal themselves.

Lawyer
Your home purchase is far too important a transaction to skimp on legal representation at the risk of leaving yourself open to costly future issues. Find a lawyer who is willing to take the time to answer your questions and who specializes in real estate law.  Investigage Title Insurance as well.

Home Inspector
No home inspection is 100% guaranteed, but a few hundred dollars to catch a major problem now is certainly better than many thousands to correct that ‘surprise’ down the road. I can recommend several home inspectors who have worked in our area.

Contractor
Planning some renovations? You’re not the only one! The home renovation industry is booming, and in some markets, booking a contractor must be done months in advance (that’s a long time to go without a kitchen). Don’t let finding the right contractor slip through the cracks – planning ahead will almost certainly make your renovation smoother, and you contractor will appreciate the advance notice.