Find a good real estate agent you like, which is highly recommended. A good agent will save you a lot of time because they know in this industry. They also know exactly what is on sale and can help you with the best possible match of your financial situation and needs.

I do not want to sign contracts that would allow them to your sole agent. Sometimes when you do that their quality of service can vary depending on the agent. If you sign, it would mean that no other agent can represent you during your research.

If you are very excited about a house do not let the agent or the seller knows. The agent and the buyer want to sell the house for the highest price possible even if he or she is your agent. The agent is paid to the commission.

About the credit, You do not need to have a good credit rating, but it can be a bonus. If you have debts other than the car you have to clean before applying for a mortgage. You will get much faster approved if you do not need too. If you do not have a lot of debt, but have had a bad credit history, the bank will probably loan you money because they put a lien on the house (loan guarantee). If you do not pay they just take their homes even though they prefer not to go in this direction.

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