Whether you are in the market to sell your home or possibly buy a new one, feel free to contact me with any of your real estate needs. Right now is a great time to think about buying a home. The interest rates are low, and the $8,000 first time home buyers tax credit is going to be extended until April 30, 2010. There is also going to be a $6,500 tax credit for repeat buyers if you have been in your home for a least 5 consecutive years.

Here are some tips to help you get started:

Before you start looking for a home you should ask yourself a few questions. Where do you want to live? Do you want to be close to schools, shopping, or work? What kind of house would you like (need)? Are you looking for a particular style? How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want? Do you want a yard? How much house can you afford? Have you consulted a REALTORŪ or mortgage lender to determine the size of the mortgage you would qualify for?
Then get organized:
Pull a credit report on yourself and make sure the information is accurate. If you find any errors, take steps to correct them immediately.
Browse through real estate advertisements in the newspaper and Homes magazines. This will give you a good feel for the types of homes that are on the market and what they cost.
Visit open houses on the weekend. It doesn't cost anything to look, and looking at a few different homes might give you some ideas for things you'd like in a house but haven't considered.
Start saving money - you'll need to have cash on hand for a down payment and closing costs.
Don't incure any additional debt. Pay down your credit cards - and don't apply for any new ones. Don't make any major purchases on credit - buy the furniture or car later.
Contact a REALTORŪ. Your REALTORŪ can help you determine how much you can afford, and they can provide you with information on homes that may interest you. The REALTORŪ will also help you complete all of the necessary forms when it comes time to make an offer.

If you are looking for a real estate agent now or in the future and have any questions, please contact me @ 518-929-7366 or feel free to email at sbrodie@prudentialmanor.com

• Location: Albany/Rensselaer/Columbia County
• it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
• License info: NYS Real Estate License