Purchasing a house can be both exciting and stressful. Many things about the process can easily overwhelm you, especially if it's your first time buying a home. Fortunately, a real estate agent can take you through the entire process and reduce some of your stress. Here are three important home buying stages where you'll need an agent's help.

1. Pre-Qualification

Before purchasing a home, you'll need to speak with a lender to determine if you qualify a loan. This is vital because it will enable you to find a house you can afford before you start shopping.

A realtor can help get you pre-qualified by a lender. These professionals work with dozens of lenders and can provide you with multiple options. They'll also consider the amount you are pre-qualified for when locating property listings for you.

2. Home Selection

Choosing the right house to buy is an important step. Unfortunately, knowing whether the home you are looking at is right for your family or not can be difficult. Plus, there are several kinds of homes such as condos, townhouses, single-family homes, and more to choose from. Going through this process alone may overwhelm you.

Realtors know the ins and outs of various neighborhoods, homes, prices, what it takes to finance a property, and how much money you'll need to purchase your dream home. They can help you determine if a home is right for your family by considering the number of people in your household, your income, and debts, and whether you have a child or plan to have one soon. They also know their local market well and have access to the MLS listings, which aren't available to everyone. This means they can show you a wide selection of homes in your price range and help narrow them down to the best that fits your needs.

3. Making Offers

Once you have found the perfect home, you'll need to make an offer. Usually, agents are knowledgeable about these things, and they can help you make an offer that is not too low or high. They also know the standard prices in various neighborhoods, so that they can advise you when it's time to offer. If your offer is successful, they'll negotiate with the seller on your behalf until they reach a deal.

Home buying is a complicated process that requires patience and knowledge. A real estate agent can guide you through the entire process and make it less stressful. If you are thinking of buying a home, contact a real estate professional like RE/MAX Great Basin Realty to help get you a home that is right for you and your family.