After 30 years of seeing the same concerns with home purchase and mortgages, I will point out some of the most important steps to insure a positive experience: 1) Do your homework and shop and interview your Realtor--look for experience, positive reviews, and how comfortable the fit, especially before signing a Buyer's Agreement; 2) Understand what their duties are for you and how they get paid; 3) Shop and interview your Mortgage Broker/Lender. Do not get steered to just one W/O shopping -- look for experience and reviews; 4) Understand what their duties are to you and how they get paid (what Broker Compensation are they under-compare these to get the best deal); 5) Get a "TRUE" pre-qualification where you have shown credit, income, assets, and liabilities and determine your price range; 6) Examine the properties in person and on Zillow, Trulia, etc. and on City/County websites as well, and talk to neighbors and local businesses; 7) Discuss potential problems/irregularities of the property with the Mortgage Broker/ Lender before proceeding; 8) Shop and choose a Lawyer/Settlement Firm for the deal-do not just get steered to one firm. Look for experience and reviews and compare ALL the fees for the deal; 9 ) Get a "good" Home Inspector involved to really inspect the property; 10) Present All the loan items to process your loan quickly to avoid problems and the microscope treatment; 11) Check you email/mail regularly for Lender paperwork that must be signed and returned; 12) Do your walk thru before closing and have your funds ready in a cashier's check/ wire form. For a great experience have the best guide you-call Diversified Mortgage Brokers with 30 years of experience in Central Virginia and beyond. WE will take care of your needs. Tel: 434-237-3143, Email: dbi4009@aol.com, Web: www.diversifiedmortbrokers.com