How To: Buy a home online

Looking to buy a home? Why leave your current digs? Using technology has made it easier than ever before to find the home of your dreams. Learn how to buy a home online with help from this how-to video.

What you will need:
• A computer with internet access
• Friends and family
• Realtor

Step 1: Research neighborhoods
Research the neighborhoods where you would like to begin your home search. Check out the school district, shopping, and crime rates. Narrow your search to two or three areas.

Step 2: Find a realtor
Find a realtor to do your negotiating and paperwork. Ask friends and family for realtor suggestions.

Step 3: Search several sites
Search several real estate web sites and real estate blogs for homes. Broaden your search to yield more results.

Step 4: Check independent seller sites
Check independent seller web sites and local sites for sales by owner.

Step 5: Avoid home valuation web sites
Use home appraisers, tax appraisal district web sites, and local comps rather than home valuation web sites.

Step 6: Get financing
Check financing rates with different mortgage companies and apply for the loan that best fits your needs. Many web sites offer comparisons of financing rates from different companies.

Step 7: Check out homes
Make appointments with your realtor to look at homes you have found and show off all that you have learned about home shopping.