[katiesue]

We just went through this. Definately get a good agent. Also you can sign up for services, either through your agent or another random agent, that will send you daily upates of new homes listed in your target area. You can specify area, price range, number of bedrooms etc. I found this superhelpful. Helps you see what's out there. Service was free. I also did a lot of my own internet searches. Helped to see what was out there, what the price ranges were things like that.

We had lots of issues as mostly Condos were in our price range. And lenders aren't currently condo friendly. They have a lot of specifications, depending on the lender, as to what they want to finance a condo. A larger owner occupied as opposed to renter ratio was one of the biggies.

We had one offer fall through because the condo association was going through a major assessment because of grading/drainage issues. It didn't affect the unit we were looking at - but no one would fund it anyway.

Also if you can find a good mortage broker it really really helps. The lenders are changing what they want from a buyer daily almost. Our closing had one small hicup but because I had a really good mortage broker I had no issues at all with the actual loan.

And if you can at all afford it - don't give notice on your current home until you have closed and have keys on the new one. I know a lot of people who have had things fall apart at the last second and if you've given notice you can end up in a huge mess.

Also make sure you know what the HOA fee or assessments are- if any. In the area we were looking at they run $350-400ish per month. That's for a condo but the homes can be $100-150. Just somthing else to keep in mind when you're thinking of what it's actually going to cost you.