20 steps to get the best deal on a home

By Dana Dratch • Bankrate.com

When it comes to real estate, timing is everything. And if you're buying this year, your timing is perfect.

For most homes in most areas, it's a buyer's market. That means you'll see plenty of houses on the market with prices that have slowed, stabilized or, in some places, even declined. And motivated buyers will likely be more amenable to making concessions.

"For someone who's been sitting on the sidelines, it's a great time to buy," says Eric Tyson, co-author of  "Home Buying for Dummies."

The biggest problem many buyers may encounter: too many choices. But that's not a bad problem to have, says Colby Sambrotto, chief operating officer of ForSaleByOwner.com. "See everything in your price range so you can make an informed decision," he says.

Spring and summer tend to be the prime home-buying season. And in many markets, buyers will have a lot of options. Want to make sure you get the best home for you? Here are 20 steps to help you get the best deal on a home this year: 

20 steps to get the best deal on a home

1. Know your score. 11. Research the sellers. 2. Get preapproved for a mortgage. 12. Look at the real numbers. 3. Determine your dollar limit. 13. Leave room for a second offer. 4. Make a list, check it twice. 14. Have a backup plan. 5. Do your homework. 15. Put all extras in your first offer. 6. Hire a buyer's agent. 16. Don't let them play mind games. 7. Don't trash the house. 17. Surrender where you can. 8. Study comparables. 18. Call your insurance agent. 9. Stay current. 19. Call the power company. 10. Find real value. 20. Educate yourself.