Don't let yourself be pressured

You may feel pressured to buy if homes are selling fast in the area where you want to live and prices are going up. Talk of rising interest rates may add to the pressure.

Pressure could cause you to make a decision you will regret. If your agent or mortgage broker is making you feel intimidated, learn as much as you can about the home buying process before you talk to them. If interest rates are rising, research the forecast in your local newspaper, national business magazines or on line. Always shop around for lenders and terms. If the market is hot, ask yourself if you really want or need to buy now. You may also want to re-focus your search on a less desirable neighborhood.

If you begin to feel pressured, take a break. It may be helpful to take a short vacation, or just a weekend away. Try to look at the situation from a completely rational point of view. Will there be other homes for sale in this area? Consider that several homes may come into the market at the same time reducing the costs.

Finding a Home in a Tight Market
- consider this advice.

> > > > Visit homes as soon as they come on the market
> > > >Take a second look at the homes you rejected
> > > >Stay in constant touch with your agent
> > > >Be ready to make an offer quickly
> > > >Don't be intimidated by multiple offers
Signs That a Neighborhood Is Improving


> > > >> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dumpsters
Construction dumpsters outside a home (or homes) indicate serious remodeling inside, a positive sign in a shabby or marginal neighborhood. Look for this trend on the fringes of more expensive, established neighborhoods.

> > >> > > >Other signs of home improvement
When homeowners spend money to upgrade their homes, it is a sign that they like the neighborhood enough to invest in it.

> > > > >Many "Sold" or "Sales Pending"signs
That means that plenty of buyers want to invest in the area.

> > > > > > Better eating and shopping options
A revitalized business district means that business owners see opportunities for new customers and sales in an area.

> > > > > >> > > > > > > > > > New public facilities
A new mass-transit stop, for example, can be a magnet for other local improvements