BUYER'S TIPS: THESE SUGGESTIONS CAN MAKE A REAL DIFFRENCE IN THE HOME BUYING PROCESS. KEEP THEM IN MIND, IT CAN MAKE YOUR HOUSE HUNTING A REWARDING AND PLEASURABLE EXPERIENCE.

1. CONSULT A BANKER/LENDER. This should be your first step, getting pre-approved for your financing. Ask about loan programs are best suited to your situation. You will also find out about closing costs and how much you can afford to spend. The lender will issue you a letter stating just how much you are qualifed to pay for your purchase. We will use this letter during negociations for your new home.

2. WHAT DO YOU REALLY NEED IN YOUR NEW HOME? Make a list of the features that are the most important to you, I'll use this information when researching homes for you to visit. Don't forget those items you DON'T want, that's important too.

3. WHAT AREAS DO YOU WANT TO LIVE IN? Location, location, location that's the key item you'll need to determine. How far do you want to drive to work? What schools are the best for your family? I'll need to know this up front also.

4. TAKE NOTES ON EACH HOME. You will be able to recall the favorites and not so favorite homes to discuss with me to zero in on that favorite home! When you look at a number of homes they sometimes are hard to recall at the end of the days tour.

5. RELAX, THAT'S MY STYLE! Don't be affraid to ask any questions of me regarding any aspect of the home buying process. Dress in comfortable clothes, it can be a long day here in the Arizona climate if you don't feel good.

6. IF YOU SEE THAT PERFECT HOME - BE READY TO MAKE AN OFFER! There is nothing worse than waiting to "think it over", and find out that the best home you have seen, just sold out from under you. Ask me for my opinion, I'll try to give you the best advice I can.

SELLER'S HOME SELLING TIPS: THESE TIPS WILL HELP SELL YOUR HOME FASTER AND FOR MORE MONEY. YOU'LL BE PROUD TO SHOW YOUR HOME.

1. MAKE YOUR HOME READY FOR INSPECTION! First impressions are very important to the prospective buyers, make sure your home is looking the best possible, even if you have to fill up the garage with excess items. Make sure the front of the home has "curb appeal".

2. ELIMINATE ALL CLUTTLER AND EXCESS FURNITURE AND DUST COLLECTORS. The rooms will look much larger with less furniture. Clean and/or paint if you need to. Open the blinds and turn on all lights, this makes for an impression that the home is "light and bright".

3. MAKE THE HOME SMELL GOOD. Try your best to eliminate any pet odors and light the scented candles or plug in air fresheners.

4. KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS SELL HOMES! Pay special attention to these rooms, make sure they are spic and span. Repair any leaks or broken fixtures. Do any maintenance like recaulking the tub or shower.

5. KEEP THE TV OFF AND THE PETS OUT OF THE WAY. Many people have allergies to pets, so keep them out of sight. Clean those cat boxes or take them outside for the showing, you may not be able to pick up those odors but the buyers will. If the TV is on the buyers attention is drawn away from your home. 

6. LET THE REALTOR DO THIER JOB, WHICH IS TO SHOW THE HOME. If there are any pressing questions they will ask you. You may want to step outside while the home is being shown. Many buyers are intimidated by the seller's being near and won't investigate the home well.

7.  DON'T LET STRANGERS IN YOUR HOME, IF THE REALTOR HAS NOT CALLED OR DOES NOT HAVE A CARD, HAVE THEM RETURN ANOTHER TIME. If they object, have them contact me.