Anyone who has ever purchased a home before can tell you that it's not always an easy process. From dealing with closing fees and inspections to stubborn delays and last-minute seller disputes, it can be tricky business. Read these tips below to find out how to simplify the real estate-buying process. Real estate can be a tough business, especially in this down market, but there are ways to still make money. One way is to simply talk to the buyer. Usually homeowners believe their property is worth 10% more than it actually is. One of the silver linings of the down market, however, is that more sellers are willing to see that their property isn't worth as much as they once thought. Explaining that they may have to take a lower price in this economy can work wonders, and it's also one of the simplest things you can do.

Buying a house should be number one on your list of purchases. Don't let other material things get in your way of saving up for one. Cars, TVs and computers are all very nice to have the latest and greatest, but don't let those keep you from saving as much as you can towards buying your home. Cash challenged buyers can also be on the market to buy a property. The way to go is a lease-to-buy or rent-to-buy agreement. In this case the rent payment, or a part of it, goes towards the down payment of the property. Due to higher monthly rent payments, this is an option only to the serious home buyer. If you are thinking of purchasing a home in a neighborhood that has a lot of new construction going on, you may want to think twice about that. Most new construction is not finished for months, and in some cases, years. This could make sleeping difficult for you and your family.

Don't forget about extra home costs in addition to buying your home. You know about mortgage, taxes and utilities, but don't forget about household repairs. Plumbing, appliances, roofing and general wear and tear are costs to be calculated. If you do not have money saved for these bills, then you may not be ready to buy a house. Decorating your patio should be an entirely personal decision. Some property managements in apartment rentals do not allow the display of any potted plants, potted flowers or satellite dishes on your patio. Make sure that you are aware of these rules before renting and that you ask, whether there are any exceptions.

Buying a home is like forced savings. There are some people who have a hard time saving money. A house can work as an automatic savings plan. When you make your monthly payment, a portion is applied towards your principal. Also, a house will appreciate every year by around five percent. Many say buying a house is one of the best financial investments. Buyers should visit open houses whenever they can. These occasions are great to tour the houses on the market, learn about nearby schools, parks and shopping centers. Listing agents hosting these events are open to discuss the special features of the properties and they can be a great resources to find out how motivated the sellers are. Make sure you have a healthy down payment saved before you buy a house. You want to have at least 20 percent of the purchase price available for the down payment, because you will have to pay extra if you don't. Remember that you will also need to pay closing costs and property taxes as well.

You never know what someone might take as a down payment. Consider offering up your car, or a boat or RV. Anything of value that they might take as partial payment. This can help you get into a home faster than if you had to scrimp and save for years. Once you've learned these tips, you can implement them where necessary in order to get the best possible deal on a home or to make the entire process go over smoothly. Above all, though, you need to apply this advice so that no one takes advantage of you. Educated buyers always prevail in the market.