With all the tools and advice available today - ranging from books and magazines to online advice like this lesson - it would theoretically be possible for you to buy your home almost completely without the aid of real estate professionals. That's not recommended. A National Association of Realtors study found that an overwhelming majority of home Buyers and home Sellers were satisfied with the services of their real estate professional. Conversely, the same survey found that most home Buyers and home  Sellers were dissatisfied with a real estate transaction when no real estate professional services were utilized. The housing market, like politics, is basically local, and each state, city, and even neighborhood has a thicket of local laws or customs that you need to understand. For that, it helps to have a team of professionals to guide you.

You want to start by finding an agent who can represent your interests in the search. An agent who understands your needs. Use recommendations from friends or colleagues, to help you find one who knows the local market and has a history of providing quality customer service. When purchasing real estate, you don't want a "johny-come-lately" or a part time salesperson. You need a dedicated professional. A member of the local and state Board of Realtors. A salesperson with experience in the community; experience in the local real estate market An experienced Agent, preferably one referred by an acquaintance, is an invaluable resource in any market conditions. Additionally, the Agency relationship between you and your Agent assures you of receiving dependable and reliable advise.