A checklist can be a valuable aid to help make sure you are covering all the bases when looking for a property.  The list below was developed to indicate what needs to be done to start you on your search.  For obvious reasons it also indicates where along the way a Buyer's agent can help you.  An exclusive buyer agent can help you through the process of buying a home while representing your best interests during the purchase process.

This checklist is directed towards a home buyer but can also be used by someone purchasing undeveloped land.

Get pre-approved for a mortgage
Obtain a Credit report, and possibly a FICO score. Learn about different types of mortgages, shop for best rates and programs.

Determine your wants and needs
Style of home, size, price, location.

Seek out an exclusive buyer's agent
Compare the services of different agents and look for good personal chemistry.

Search for homes in the MLS
Sign up for email notification services at a website which will allow you to be informed of properties which will meet your wants and needs.  Some websites send any properties which fit your criteria (price, # of Bedrooms, etc.)  Red Door Real Estate can look at each qualifying property before sending it to you to eliminate ones which obviously won't work.

Check out the neighborhood, schools, zoning, and work commute
You can rely on Red Door Real Estate's expertise and in-company resources. Check this website for helpful information.

Do the due diligence and research on your property of interest
Learn about any zoning changes, liens, easements, or other restrictions which might effect your use of the property.  Your Buyer agent can be a great help with their knowledge of the area and local regulations.

Prepare the offer and negotiate
Red Door Real Estate can prepare a property value study and ask the seller, or their agent, if there are any other offers and his motivation for selling, deadlines, etc.  It must be noted that in many cases the selling agency will not be giving out information that might be helpful for the Buyer as they are trying to get the best deal for their client.

Arrange financing
Now is the time to apply for a mortgage or, if paying cash, be sure that your accounts are in order.

Conduct the home inspections and other inspections
Take advantage of the inspection contingencies in your offer and get thorough inspections to eliminate any surprises after you move in to your new home.

Retain an Attorney
Your offer should include the option to have an attorney review your contract.  Your attorney will also be doing the title search and possibly conducting the closing.  

Walk-through inspection prior to closing
Visit your new home before you sit down at the closing table to make sure everything is as you expect it to be.

Closing
Make sure you have coordinated all aspects of closing with your various support personnel.  Your buyer agent can help you do this.  You will need to arrange to have whatever portion of the transaction costs you are not borrowing to be available in an acceptable form and will most likely need to have your drivers license with you for identification purposes.

You many find that you need to add some steps, based on your special situation, to create a customized home buying checklist for yourself. Your Exclusive Buyer's Agent can help you expand this list for your circumstances and also help you find the right home loan for your needs.

Consumer Federation of America  "We urge consumers who are purchasing a home to first consider an exclusive buyer broker relationship."