If you’re planning to buy a house or condo, a little research gives you confidence that you know what you;re getting and that the price is fair.

  Talk to your broker – This is the right time to visit your mortgage broker to prearrange your mortgage and lock in a low interest rate. You’ll also learn how much you will be eligible to borrow. Plus, you’ll be able to design a mortgage that will suit your needs.

  Set A limit – Knowing your upper limit for a morgageg, together with the amount of your down payment and estimates for utilities and taxes , will tell you how much home you can afford and are comfortable carrying.

  Know your neighbourhood – Get to know your desired area, identifying both trouble spots and the best streets. Ask your agent to provide some actual selling prices in those areas.

  Make your wish list – Choosing and buying a home usually incolves trade-offs, even in a buyers market. View listings and visit a couple of open houses to spark discussion and zero in on whats really important to you.

The bottom line for buyers and sellers alike? the better prepared you are,the more likely you are to be satisfied with the outcome.