Homes differ and so do contract terms, financing options, inspection requirements and closing costs. In this maze of forms, financing, inspections and negotiating, it makes sense to work with professionals who know the community and what's more, know real estate.

How do you choose a Realtor?

In every community you're likely to find a number of realty brokerages. The best place to find a local Realtor may include open houses, local advertising, Web sites, referrals from other Realtors, recommendations from neighbors or friends and suggestions from lenders, attorneys, financial planners and CPAs.

In many cases buyers will interview several Realtors before selecting one professional with whom to work. These interviews represent a good opportunity to consider such issues as experience, representation and professional certifications.

What should you expect?

Once you select a Realtor you will want to establish a proper business relationship. You likely know that some Realtors represent sellers while others represent buyers. Each Realtor will explain the options available and provide you with complete agency disclosures (the ins and outs of your relationship with the agent) as required by law.

Once hired for the job, the Realtor will provide you with information detailing current market conditions, financing options and negotiating issues that might apply to a given situation.

Remember: Because market conditions can change and the strategies that apply in one negotiation may be inappropriate in another, this information should not be set in stone. During your time in the marketplace Realtors will keep you updated and alert you to each step in the transaction process. Get to know Harvard Realty Associates

When Should I Obtain a Pre-Approval Letter?
You should have your pre-approval letter in hand before you start making appointments to view properties. Sellers and real estate agents alike expect that they are only showing properties to bona fide prospective purchasers with pre-approval letters.

Attending Open Houses or touring an area with an agent is one thing, but when you are out there viewing properties you must have a current pre-approval letter, without one you could potentially be taking valuable selling time away from both the Sellers and the real estate agents.