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Path To Buying A Used Home:
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Get
organized, pay debts, get your Credit Report, clean your
credit report.
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Read
real estate classifieds, free real estate magazines, web home
searches.
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Get
a good book on home buying, and get a good real
estate agent.
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Secure
financing and pre-qualify for a mortgage.
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Select
a home to buy using tips found here
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Choose
a good real estate lawyer
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Negotiate
tough with the seller, begin escrow, sign a preliminary contract.
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Shop
for homeowner's insurance.
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Have
the house inspected by a professional engineering firm.
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If
inspection and financing are OK, buy the house.
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Close
escrow, and move in.
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It is the little things--both positive and
negative--that can make a big difference to prospective buyers.
Before you list your home, go through the house with a careful
eye. Here are some helpful things to remember:
Outside:
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Sweep
front walkway.
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Remove
newspapers, bikes and toys.
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Park
extra cars away from the property.
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Trim
back the shrubs.
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Mow
the lawn more frequently and plant flowers.
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Apply
fresh, clean paint throughout.
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Clean
windows and window coverings throughout.
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Keep
pet areas clean.
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Keep
plumbing and all appliances in working order.
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Make
sure roof and gutters are in good condition.
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Fix
any loose doorknobs, popped screen doors.
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Inside:
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Kitchen
and bathroom should shine.
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Maintain
all sealant (window, tub, shower, sink, etc.) in good condition.
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Quick
once-over with the vacuum; carpets should be clean.
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Place
fresh flowers in the main rooms.
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Hang
a pretty plant from the bathroom skylight.
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Put
dishes away, unless setting a formal display for decoration.
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Make
beds and put all clothes away.
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Enhance
the spaciousness of each room.
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Open
drapes and increase wattage of light bulbs for a brighter feel.
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Straighten
closets.
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Put
toys away.
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Turn
off television.
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Keep
pets out of the way and pet areas clean and odor-free.
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Set
out baskets of fresh potpourri.
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