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As with anything that requires a process, it’s a good idea to start by thoughtfully determining your wants and needs, and be sure you know the difference between the two. By analyzing your “must haves” you will be able to get a clear picture of exactly what your new home should look like, how it should function for you, and where it should be located. It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of tasteful interior design or unusual architectural features, and completely overlook something like the square footage of bedrooms or the number and location of baths, and whether or not they meet your needs.Your reason for moving, though obvious to you, should be made crystal clear to your agent as well. After all, this will have a great impact on how you approach your home search, affecting time lines, neighborhoods, price range and characteristics.

Get pre-qualified! I can’t say this enough. This is the most important factor in avoiding ambiguity in your home search process. I know that everyone is acutely aware of what their budget will allow for a mortgage payment, but government regulations have evolved to the point of taking that decision out of your hands. There is no worse feeling for a home buyer than to find THE home of your dreams and realize later that it is just outside of what your mortgage qualification will allow. In addition, in the state of Arizona it is required that a Pre-Qualification form accompany every offer. You’re wasting your time and mine when you haven’t talked to a lender first – I would not be allowed to submit an offer for you without that form.