Talk to those who know the market best.

Visit ColumbusHousingFacts.com to learn more about our real estate market, but don't forget to talk to the experts themselves: REALTORS^®, home builders, and mortgage lenders who know the market well. Those of you who need financial counseling, downpayment assistance, or homebuyer education also will find links to those resources on ColumbusHousingFacts.com.

Not only can REALTORS^® help you find a home, they also are an invaluable resource for selling your home, and it starts with setting the right price. In today's market, the listing price is more important than ever. Ask your REALTOR^® to show you the recent selling price of homes that are comparable to yours, then work with that REALTOR^® to determine where your home should be priced within that spectrum.

Nearly 90% of home buyers and sellers say they would use the same agent if they were to move again. Buyers and sellers give high marks to REALTORS^® and are very quick to point out the value of using one.

The typical real estate transaction includes more than 175 actions, research steps, procedures, processes and review stages. Anything can happen; it isn't worth navigating these tricky waters without help from real estate professionals.

When setting the price of your home, don't compare yours to homes sold 18 months ago or longer, or your listing price may be unrealistic. A REALTOR^® can help determine the best list price for you home, taking into consideration comparable sales and the condition and special features of your home.

If 2008 is the year you will sell and/or buy a home, give yourself a head start on the spring buying market by getting organized and informed. First, check your credit report to see if there are financial blemishes that should be cleared up. Then talk to a mortgage lender, who can give you an accurate picture of what you can afford. If you are ready to buy, ask the mortgage lender to prequalify you. Then call a REALTOR^®.

Do research on your own. It's easier than ever. Spend time looking at real estate web sites to get an idea of how closely matched your budget is with your dream house. It's important to be realistic about what types of homes are in your price range before you begin to look.

When you are ready to visit homes, contact your REALTOR^® to set up the appointments for you.