Back in the “good old days”, buyers who were pre-approved usually spent less than a month looking for a home; typically, they would see 15-20 houses. In today’s market, it’s not unusual for buyers to look at two or three times that number and still not say “yes” to one of them. With the number of homes available, buyers become overly concerned that they have not yet seen the “perfect” home. News media reporting has also helped convince them that there is a “better deal” around the next corner.

Here are some tips which might help buyers be more efficient in their search:

-Look at enough properties to get acquainted with the local market and its likelihood of meeting your expectations. Also, be sure to have your agent provide you with data regarding the performance of the market in your area, including sold statistics.

-Let your emotions help you. Too many buyers have forgotten that buying a home should be a satisfying and rewarding emotional experience, as well as a sensible purchase. Without emotion entering into your considerations, it will be much harder to make a decision. Go ahead, fall in love with a house! Then be sure it is a good purchase for you.

-Decide if a distressed property is really right for you. Purchasing a property which is under foreclosure or short sale circumstances can be a complicated and trying experience. Buyers will need a very good agent and a lot of patience and flexibility to be successful.

-Don’t focus too heavily on price. Yes, price is an important consideration, but it isn’t the only one. Sometimes focusing on getting the “very best” price keeps buyers from considering all the other benefits of purchasing a home

-Be ready to negotiate. The first step is to make an offer at a price you are comfortable with…but be prepared to consider a counter-offer from the seller. Negotiation is part of the process and can be the open door to a successful purchase. Typically, in the current market, sellers are still finding that they are the ones who need to do more negotiating, so, go ahead, give it a try, you never know where you might end up!

-Get plenty of advice but trust the professionals. Now, more than ever, buyers need the experience and guidance from a real estate professional who knows the market in his/her area. Friends and family can certainly offer good ideas for consideration, but, in the end, trust the professionals.

-Don’t let negative comments about the housing market scare you off.  Despite the fact that there still seems to be bad news being broadcast about the real estate market, serious buyers should keep their eyes on the target. This is a “perfect storm” for buyers: historically low interest rates, high inventory, motivated sellers…you can buy more now for your dollar than at any time in recent history.

Go on out and buy a home! You won’t regret the decision!

Based on an article published on line, November 17, 2010, by RISMEDIA, the Leader in Real Estate Information Systems