Steps on How to Buy a Home -step 2

Start browsing the real estate market in your town now, even before you find an agent. If there are a great number of For Sale By Owner properties in your area you might not want an agent, but you should seek advice from an attorney or other real estate professional during the home buying process.

Pick up real estate for sale books in your area. Read real estate ads in the local newspapers. Browse listings on the Internet. Find your local Multiple Listing Service's public Web site if it's available, or search for individual agencies. Take adventure drives and look for For Sale signs. Note which neighborhoods you like the best. Make changes to your Wants & Needs list if necessary. These Home Buying & Selling links will help you search.

Foreclosures For Sale

Search engines that help you locate foreclosed real estate, including homes owned by HUD and other government-related agencies.

FSBO Listings

Search for real estate listed for sale by owner (FSBO). Homes, land, and other types of properties for sale.

Agent & Agency Web Sites - US

Find local real estate agents and agencies that offer real estate listings in specific cities and towns throughout the United States. Arranged by state and city.

Multiple Listing Services - US

Find Multiple Listing Service Web sites arranged by city and state, and other large, regional real estate portals. Real estate listings throughout the United States.

Real Estate Search Engines - US Nationwide

Find independent real estate portals and other property listing services that feature real estate for sale throughout the United States.

Real Estate Listings - Canada

Search for homes and land for sale throughout Canada. Try the FSBO category, too, for more Canadian real estate listings.

Real Estate Magazines

Locate magazines packed with listings for homes and other types of real estate. Most of these real estate magazines offer free copies by mail. Many include homes and other properties that can be viewed online.