Home Buyer’s Helpful Hints
Buying a home is not only one of the biggest purchases of your life but it can also be frustrating and time consuming.  The following are some helpful hints that will give you a head start and help make the process go as smooth as possible:

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Pull Your Credit Report
It’s always a good idea to periodically check your credit score for any possible errors.  So, before beginning your home buying process obtain copies of your credit report from the major credit bureaus.  This will allow you to verify all information and address any items that need to be corrected.

Pre-Approval Letter
A pre-approval letter tells the seller that a lender has approved you for a loan based on your credit history, income and employment status.  This gives you a bigger advantage over another buyer who has not been pre-approved.  The seller knows there would be no financial contingency on the contract which puts you one step closer to the closing table.

Do Your Homework
There will be times that you will move in to an area with which you are not familiar.  If you find a home you like, drive through the neighborhood  at different times and different days.  Each visit you will notice something you missed previously.  Also, talk to the neighbors.  You will find that they are a fountain of information and most of them will be happy to answer your questions.

If schools are of  interest to you, visit the Tennessee Department of Education web-site for school report cards. http://state.tn.us/education/

Check with the local law enforcement.  Inquire about statistics that may cause alarm.

Treat The Process Like A Business
Once again, buying a home will most likely be the biggest purchase you make.  Remember to treat the process like a business deal.  Analyze the Comparative Market Analysis, be prepared to negotiate, know your purchasing limit and TRY to keep the emotional side at bay.

Protect Yourself – Get A Home Inspection
No home is perfect  Therefore, it is important that you get a home inspection by a professional.  The cost  does not compare to the peace of mind knowing that the home you are about to purchase has no major problems.  Remember, nothing compares to owning your own home in a neighborhood that you chose.