Start by creating a prioritized list of features you want in your next island home and the reasons why. Use it as your search guide, but remember that depending on your funding, you will probably need to make some compromises. In addition, talk to your real estate professional about where you want to live. Location is a huge part of any move.

Now that you know what you want, it's time to see what you can afford. You can start by crunching the numbers yourself using our mortgage calculator.

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Once you know what community you'd like to live in and have an idea of how much house you can afford, its time to start checking out actual properties. Beginning this search online can help save you time since it can help you target homes that meet your search criteria.

Next, begin visiting homes in person. Ask your ERA real estate professional to arrange visits that are in your target area and price range. When comparing homes, make sure to look at all aspects of the property.

Once you find the home you want, you need to make an offer for the house. Typically this is a very difficult and trying time since both parties have totally different goals. In most cases it is better to have a third party, such as a real estate professional, negotiate the offer. If you have any personal interaction with the homeowner, don't give out any information about your move, your current housing status, financial status or your feelings about their property - positive or negative. This could hurt you in future negotiations.

After your offer is accepted you will need to set up, coordinate and interpret various inspections, including insect, building quality, title, etc. You will also need to arrange for homeowners insurance and finalize the mortgage.

This is a major step in the buying process and there are many potential problems that can be discovered during this period. These include a leaky roof, termite damage, a foundation problem, and wall cracks, to name a few. These problems happen all the time. The difference between closing on your dream home and starting the process all over again is what occurs during the negotiations between you and the seller.

Your ERA Island Realty Professional can help make these discussions go more smoothly.

Before you arrive at the closing, make sure all the necessary paper work and deposits have been completed.

Once you close, it's official - you own the house! But there might be a few things you want to do before you lay out the welcome mat. These include turning on the electricity, cleaning, arranging for other services, etc. This could also be a good time to make some needed renovations.

Now that you are in your new home, it is time to settle in. In addition to unpacking, these "to-dos" will help you get up to speed.

• Contact utility companies and verify start dates.
• Check the condition of items as they are unloaded. Note damaged or missing items on the inventory list.
• Get necessary licenses including drivers and pet licenses.
• Let the local post office know that you have arrived.
• Create an emergency phone list for your new community and post on the refrigerator.
• Change batteries in smoke detectors and plan a fire escape route.

Create a marketing plan for your home. This is best done in consultation with your ERA island Realty Ltd representative. An appraisal can also be done by a qualified appraiser recommended by ERA Island Realty Ltd.

It's important to get an accurate assessment of what your property is worth. There are many factors to consider: neighborhood, the purchase price of the home, the type of property it is, and features such as view, garage, A/C systems, etc. Contact your ERA Island Realty representative to arrange an appraisal.

Now it's time to get your home ready for the spotlight. Start with a good cleaning, then eliminate any clutter, add a fresh coat of paint and tidy up the yard. Talk to your real estate professional about other tips that can help boost a home's curb appeal and impress potential buyers once they're in the door.