Susan,

There are many reasons to enter into a real estate venture using a real estate professional. Full time agents know the market, have an awareness of where the opportunities are and they have been highly trained in the real estate process....buying, selling, real estate law, ethics, etc.

The seller is responsible for compensating the real estate agent by paying the commission for the transaction.

The following is an outline of the process.

decide to purchase a home
identify your target location
develop a list of features you are seeking in your new home
get pre-qualified for a loan so you focus on homes in your specific price range
identify the agent you will be working with
preview homes
identify your home
write a contract offer
negotiate terms and price
contract agreement
have the home inspected
finalize financing
arrange for insurance
change utilities, water, electricity, telephone, cable
Review and accept HUD statement
Final walk through
Closing

Good luck,
The "Eckler team"