Owning your own home is the American Dream. And that dream is more alive today than ever before. Yet one of the first realizations a prospective home buyer often comes to is that the "dream home" does not always seem affordable.

Buying a home has changed in the 21st century. Before, buyers usually shopped for the best house they could find, then "took out" a loan. Today, prospective buyers must shop as thoroughly for the best financing as they do for the best house. In today's market both tasks are equally important.

Experience has taught us that the buying process involves common stages for all home buyers. To help you understand that process, and make the most of every day and dollar you spend, Mary A. Thomas Realtor has prepared this Home Buyers Guide to provide an overview from the planning table to the closing table.

Of course, this short guide cannot answer all your questions. For specific answers we encourage you to consult a Mary A. Thomas Sales Associate. After all, helping you fulfill your home ownership dream is our business.