It's here. Your REALTOR® has helped you find that home of your dreams. Now what? Generally, the next step in the process is making an offer and beginning negotiations.

Your REALTOR® is well equipped to help you negotiate. There are numerous negotiating factors, including but not limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession, and the inclusion or exclusion of repairs and furnishings or equipment. Purchase agreements allow a certain amount of time to complete necessary inspections and investigations of the property before you are required to complete the purchase.

Evaluation of the property is a necessary step in the home buying process. Evaluations and inspections could include inspections for termites, dry rot, asbestos, faulty structure, roof condition, radon, and septic tank and well tests. Your REALTOR® will help you in finding qualified professionals to complete these evaluations and provide you with all appropriate documentation.

One thing you need to see is a preliminary report on the title of the property. Title indicates ownership of property and can be bogged down in confusing statuses of past owners or access rights. Most titles have limitations (such as easements, or access rights, for utilities). Your REALTOR® will help you resolve issues that have potential to cause future problems.

Your REALTOR® will also guide you through the closing process and make sure your home purchase goes smoothly.

About REALTORS® - A REALTOR® is your Guide

• A REALTOR® can help you comply with local, state, and national laws when buying a home
• A REALTORS® can help you with important paperwork like disclosures, property titles, and tax filings