Selecting a buyer's agent to help you find your dream home is an important first step. He or she can represent the buyer's interest in a real estate transaction. Before making a decision, however, have a realtor explain the pros and cons of using a buyer's agent versus a sales or dual agent.

When you're ready to visit houses, ask your CENTURY 21 professional champion to help you with:

• Arranging showings
• Tracking of the properties you've seen.
• Identify if the home meets your criteria - refer to your "what's right for you" list
• A digital camera to record what you see

After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system that will help narrow the field. For example, pick the house you like best on day one and compare all other houses to it. When you find a better one, use the new favorite as the standard.