Agents
A real estate agent is a professional who can save you time and trouble. And possibly even a lot of money. You see, real estate agents have the home buying experience most people lack. They know all of the necessary steps and have all of the negotiating skills to work on your behalf.

An agent will:

• Fine-tune your wants/needs list
• Get special computer access to listing information
• Screen homes so you don't waste your time
• Arrange appointments
• Offer helpful advice about the neighborhoods
• Introduce you to trusted contacts who should be on your team

When looking for a real estate agent, consider RE/MAX. RE/MAX associates are the industry's top producers. They're the cream of the real estate crop.

Contractors
If you've decided to do some renovations on your home to make it more sellable, it's time to look for a credible contractor. Before anyone begins work on your home, it is important to do your homework.

1. Ask for Referrals

• Your architect will make recommendations
• Your RE/MAX agent will offer some suggestions
• Contact friends or neighbors who have had similar work done
• Ask at your local builder supply store

When you're interviewing contractors, ensure their credibility. Contact their references. Ask to see some samples of the contractor's work and speak to his clients to ensure that they were satisfied with the price, length of time in which the project was completed and overall, how the project was handled. Also, check with your local Better Business Bureau.

Once you have the names of a few contractors that look promising, arrange to get estimates from them. By arranging for three quotes you'll get a good idea of the costs and quality of work.

When going over the project with your contractor, ensure that he understands your needs and your budget. Each contractor will have a different idea on how to approach the work and they should inspect your home before giving an estimate. If contractors are bidding based on an architect's plans, be certain that they have detailed their approach to the job based on the drawings.

What's more, if there is a significant difference in the price, ask the contractors to explain their estimates. And keep in mind that the lowest price is not always the best. A price that's too low may mean that the contractor has undercut to get the project and then may submit additional project costs once the project is underway. As well, a high price doesn't always mean that you're getting gouged. The contractor may have budgeted for higher quality materials and may offer workmanship that is of an overall better quality.

In every case, before you sign the contract, be certain that it is as detailed as possible - to the point of noting the specific finishes and brand names of the products to be installed.

2. Evaluating a Quotation

• Are the specific details of the project outlined?
• Are the specific costs detailed?
• Is there a provision for extra costs?
• Has a cap been set for the total project?
• Is there a firm project timeline?
• Has the contractor allotted time for inspections?
• Have you indicated that you wish to see all material receipts?
• Will the work be subcontracted?

Appraisers
Hiring an appraiser to appraise the value of property you are considering to buy may seem sensible but it is actually unnecessary. Your lender will want their own appraisal anyway, so you could be wasting valuable money. Most RE/MAX agents are also competent and can perform a "Comparative Market Analysis" for you, which will establish a value range. The only situation where hiring an appraiser would become necessary is when the property is unusual with no comparable sales.

Lenders
The true test for a buyer is "What else can we buy for the same or less money?" In short, a lender is anyone who will give you money. There are private lenders and institutional lenders, like banks and credit unions. Even your brother-in-law can be your lender. Of course, when you're looking for a lender, you' re looking for a long-term relationship and terms and rates which are beneficial to you.

You have a few options. You should go to a mortgage broker who will search the mortgage market for the best rates and conditions based on your circumstances. Usually the broker is paid by the lender without cost to you. However, the cloudier your credit history, the more likely there will be a fee. A good mortgage broker will be connected to all major lenders through the mortgage market.

You can also perform your own search. With a good credit history, it's really not that complicated. Pick up your newspaper and you'll see what the different lending institutions are offering. Find the institution you feel you would be most comfortable with and one that offers the terms and conditions you're looking for. Then, go in person and negotiate your best deal.

We'll go into more detail about this process in the Arranging A Mortgage section.

Mortgage Brokers
This is a person who will do the leg work in finding the institution which offers the mortgage terms and conditions that are right for you. Much like an insurance broker, this professional works for you and can offer you an unbiased referral. Although most brokers are paid a finders fee by the lender, some will charge 2% of the total mortgage to find you a lender.

Lawyers/Notaries
A lawyer is there to represent your interests and process the documentation required. The legal aspects differ from state to state. Your RE/MAX Agent can recommend lawyers to advise you on the steps to be taken before the keys to your new home are presented to you. In short, lawyer helps ensure you are protected.

Home Inspectors
Have your prospective home inspected. Whether you make it a condition of purchase or not, having the property inspected by a qualified home inspector will give you the added confidence that you've made the right decision. For your protection, be very careful to verify the qualifications of your home inspector and make sure your they're certified and accredited.

Insurance Brokers
You'll want to make sure your property and valuables will be covered. An insurance broker offers independent advice and can save you time, trouble and money. Plus, the bank will insist that you carry full insurance since your property is used as collateral against your mortgage.

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