Introduction

Welcome to the Buyer's Tutorial. Seeing that you are here, you probably have decided to venture out on your own - or you may be on the fence as to doing-it-yourself versus using an agent. At any rate, we would like to applaud you on taking the first step towards real estate freedom.

If you thought that using a real estate agent was free to you as a buyer, guess again - beware, the hidden cost of buying. If you live in one of the many states where the seller pays the commissions, then this has been the standard agent pitch. However, have you ever considered that using an agent is a direct conflict to you as a buyer?

By using an agent, you're asking someone to essentially negotiate down their commission. How can this person honestly act on your best behalf? They can't! Let us guide you through the basic steps of Self Service Real Estate^SM.

• Getting Started
  Is it the right time to buy? Knowing what you really can afford.
• Mortgages: Really Big Debt
  It doesn't have to be as bad as signing away your first born.
• Your Experts: Building the Network
  Assembling your network of real estate experts.
• Finding a Home: Property For Sale
  Searching for the "American Dream."
• Researching: Knowing What You're Getting and What it's Worth
  Understand the neighborhood, as well as the sales price - determine the fair market value.
• Offers (and Counteroffers)
  Presenting the offer, knowing how to negotiate.
• Agreements: Contract of Purchase
  Purchase contracts and contingencies.
• Protecting Your Property
  Inspections and Insurance - the best first line of defense.
• Closing: Escrow and Title
  Setting up escrow and transferring title.

Ok, let's get started -->