Buying right will give you an edge from the start, make you money and prevent many future headaches. Buying a home or a condo is a long-term investment. Take your time, get ready and snatch the best buys. Remember, you need to end up happy.

To snatch the best buys, buyers need to be prepared and fully approved by a lender. First obtain a Letter of Approval stating that Mr. and Mrs. Buyers are fully approved subject to appraisal and earnest money contract. This means that and application and required documents have been presented to and approved by the underwriter--the person who actually approves your loan.

Do your homework in coordination with your Realtor. Preview as many houses as possible in the areas of preference. Select one or two neighborhoods and follow them up on a daily basis--new listings, pending, sold--until you feel comfortable and knowledgeable of the market.

Get familiar with the forms that will be used to present the offer. Once the home of your choice hits the market, your Realtor must advise you immediately. Look at the house, confirm that it is the house that meets your needs, write the offer on the spot. Do not hesitate; remember that you are paying and option fee which gives you a few days to do the inspection and make up your mind.