I disagree with Steven Dyer's comment. Now is an EXCELLENT time to buy. While I do not have a crystal ball, I do not believe that prices will decline much further. I do believe that mortgage interest rates will begin to climb as well as prices remaining stable and gradually begin to increase.

From one Cynthia to another, give me a call and I would be delighted to discuss market conditions with you.

Wait another year to buy, prices are declining. Good Luck

"You are getting into the market at a great time, especially for first time buyers. "

Delusions on the cusp of madness.

Cynthia,

Believe it or not....by seeking information on Trulia, you have begun.....

In our opinion the most important aspect of purchasing a home is being as informed as possible. With the availability of today's technology, buyers can easily educate themselves.

Consider these steps:

1. review your personal monthly budget..account for all income and expenses

2. get pre-qualified for financing..meet with several loan reps. always request "good faith estimated"

3. survey the availibility of homes in your target location on Trulia, Realtor.com. etc

4. attend open houses...not for the purpose of buying but identifying an agent you would like to work with

5. work with a real estate professional that can guide you through the purchase process.

Best wishes on your home search.

The Eckler Team

Hi Cynthia,
You are getting into the market at a great time, especially for first time buyers. Time is running out though, the $8000 federal tax credit is set to expire in November so there's no time to waste.
I live and work in your area and would be happy to help you through this process. Home buyer's in Maine can now have their own agent who works in their best interest and it usually costs the buyer nothing.
Give me a call or email and we an set up a meeting to get you started.
Diana Downs
ERA Dawson Bradford
C - 207-735-6988 F - 207-941-9866
dianadowns@eradawson.com
http://DianaDowns.com

Hi Cynthia, generally your best option is to speak with a mortgage professional first. We can discuss your various finance options and determine how much house you can comfortably afford and provide you with a pre-approval letter that shows you are a "capable" buyer. Then we would recommend or have you secure a Realtor to help you find the house of your dreams that meets the guidelines set forth in the pre-approval letter. I'd love to guide you through this process if you would like. Good Luck!!

Hi Cynthia,

I am an Accredited Buyer Representative and have work with many many first-time homebuyers like yourself. Feel free to give me a call and we can discuss the process. I have a nice one page flow chart that outlines the steps to buying a home. I would be delighted to work with you if you are looking in the southern Maine area or I would be delighted to refer you to someone in my network of ABR Realtors.

CJ Dubois-Cote, Prudential Prime Properties, 207-615-1663 or cindy@prubay.com

Hi Cynthia,

Find a Real Estate Agent you trust and they will help guide you through the whole process. A good agent will help you get qualified for a loan, search for properties, arrange showings.... And when you find the right place they will help you write the offer, negotiate terms, giude you through inspections, and will stay by your side all the way to close.

South West Harbor is a bit outside my area, but I'd be happy to help you find the right buyers agent for you. Feel free to contact me at 207-846-5110 or michael@MaineProeprtySales.com

The most important thing that a first time homebuyer can do is to get a very strong Buyer's Agent representing you! A Buyer's Agent will be on your side, looking out for your best interest as you navigate the waters leading to home ownership! If you would like for me to recommend a GREAT Buyer's Agent for you, please let me know! I Love to help first-time homebuyers (even if I don't get to personally work with them!)