It doesn’t take a lot of surfing on the Internet to find countless tips for buying and selling homes.  I thought I would list my personal “Top 10 Tips for Buyers and Sellers”, which will get you off to a great start!
Feel free to contact me if you would like a complimentary Home Buyer’s Guide or Home Seller’s Guide and additional information.

Sara's Top Ten:

For Buyers:

1. Get your credit and buying power in order before you are ready to buy.  Start talking to a lending professional (I have recommendations!) at least six months in advance so that any credit errors or issues can be cleared and you can fully know your options and limitations in advance.
2. Find a Realtor who you enjoy working with.  Ask for recommendations from friends and interview several before selecting one.  Find a Realtor who shares your values, communicates well, listens well, knows the market, and is committed to working hard for you.
3. Use your Realtor’s and your lender’s expertise to make sure you understand all of the closing costs and property taxes associated with a home purchase.  Talk to your tax professional about potential tax benefits that you can enjoy as a homeowner, so that you have a full understanding of all ramifications before you write an offer!
4. Hone in on your list of Musts and Negotiables for your search.  Along with your price range, get clear on your list of “must haves” and “nice but not crucials” for your next home.  School districts, access to shopping, and other big picture items should accompany your list of bedrooms, baths and type of yard!
5. If possible, commit to a specific time each week that your Realtor can show you homes.  This makes scheduling easier for everyone, and simplifies the process.

For Sellers:

1. Know that there is no way to time the market.  Worrying about selling at the perfect moment will not only make you crazy, but is also impossible.  Sell at the time that makes sense for you.
2. Find a Realtor who will offer you full-service in selling your home.  Interview at least three agents, and pay attention to what they will do to help you sell your home for its full value.  Go beyond picking the agent who suggests the highest selling price, and pay close attention to their credentials, strategy, and their marketing proposals.
3. If you want top dollar for your home, put some effort toward preparing it for the marketplace.  Make repairs, clear back overgrown plants and shrubs, and get it ready to compete with all of the other homes that buyers will be considering. 
4. Stage your home so that buyers can ‘mentally move in’.  This is what the model homes at any new subdivision are designed to do, and it works!  See my attached “All About Staging” article for more information about Staging.  I am an Accredited Staging Professional (ASP) Realtor, so I can offer you professional guidance in this area and recommend an ASP for the job, if needed.
5. Disclose, Disclose, Disclose.  We live in a very litigious state, and one of the top reasons for litigation in real estate transactions is over items that were not disclosed by the seller.  Do not make this time and money-consuming mistake!