uestions & Answers
1.	How does purchasing a home compare with renting?
	Although one advantage to renting is being free of most maintenance responsibilities, you lose the chance to build equity, take advantage of tax benefits and protect yourself against ongoing rent increases. Also, you may be at the mercy of your landlord and may not be free to make your living space reflect your own individual style. Owning a home offers you the opportunity to make an investment, allow for tax breaks, and gives you the freedom, stability and security that comes from owning your own home.
2.	How much can I afford to purchase?
	Pre-qualification with a lending agency is the best way to determine what price range is best suited for you. Your agent will assist you with locating mortgage companies to submit an application to.
3.	How do I know what to look for when searching for a home?
	The home you choose should fit the way you live. Therefore, you should make a list of what items are important to you. For instance, should the house be close to certain amenities? What size home will work best for you? What type of lot would you prefer? What type of area do you prefer to live in? This information will help you get started in finding the home that's right for you.
4.	Is an older home better than a new one?
	Although there is no definitive answer to this, you should look at each home individually and what individual characteristics it has to offer you. Generally older homes are in well established neighborhoods and offer more ambiance and lower tax rates. Newer homes use more modern architecture and systems, may be easier to maintain and more energy efficient.
5.	What should I look for when looking through a home?
	Is there enough room for both the present and the future? Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms? Is the house structurally sound? Do the mechanical systems and appliance work? Is the yard big enough? Do you like the floor plan? Will your furniture fit in the space? Is there enough storage for your things? Does anything need repairing or replacement? Who will make necessary repairs? How will I fit in to the neighborhood and surroundings?
	Consideration of the items on this list, along with your initial list to help you get started, should get you well on your way to making the decision that's right for you.
What other issues should I address before making an offer on a home?
	Should I have an inspection? Do I want a lawyer and when? Rates for home owner's insurance? Is there property information available? (i.e., appraisal, tax receipts., current assessment, deed, floor plan, any leins, legal description, any deed or zoning restrictions, prior inspections, survey, utility receipts, survey, easements, etc.) How much do I need to put down as good faith money? What is the homes value? (Your agent will assist you with this taking into consideration how long it's been on the market, financing, seller's situation and comparables homes.