Richard Rosa's Q&A

Well, first of all, don't assume the best deals are foreclosed properties. They may be in some states/counties, but there are a lot of good deals on properties that don't have all the issues that bank-owned properties have. Also, find a good home inspector. You need to know what you are getting yourself into. Obviously, books can be written on this topic, but the above is my two cents. Good luck!

The mistake many unrepresented home buyers make with new construction is not having all, and I mean all, the specifications on the property before making an offer and beginning negotiations. Builders love it when buyers are not represented. Find an exclusive buyer agent who has experience helping home buyers purchase new construction. You'll be glad you did. [content removed by moderator for being self promotional]

You'll want to visit the Web site for the National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents (http://naeba.com/). If your buyer agent is not an exclusive buyer agent then there is the potential for a conflict of interest. Good luck. 

There's no guarantee we will ever see 4% mortgage interest rates. 5.3% is a great rate, and you can always refinance. Good luck. [content removed by moderator for being self promotional]