"Helping to Embrace the Dream"
Don't buy the first house you see.
If you like the first house you see, don't be tempted to make an offer right away. You should look at least a few other houses first so you can get an idea of the homes that are available in your price range.Always get an inspection.
Any purchase offer you make should be contingent upon your approval of a qualified home inspector's report, even when buying a new or almost new home. Friends, family, or your Realtor may be able to refer you to a good inspector, or you can contact the Better Business Bureau for a list. Even if your lender does not require it, you may want to consider conducting a full land survey--property line disputes could potentially cost you thousands down the road, and are typically not covered by title insurance.Get everything in writing.
This is especially important during any kind of contract negotiation. Verbal commitments are hard to prove after the fact, so make sure that all the small details are added to the purchase contract. If the seller says you can have the curtains, make sure the contract says so!