1. Do not use "and/or assigns" when making offers to institutional sellers.

2. Offer a reasonable earnest money deposit when making offers through Realtors.

3. Elminate all contingencies if possible. Review contingency clauses enclosed but use only when absolutely necessary.

4. Insert corporate name as buyer if possible.

5. Close with your title company or attorney if possible, even if it means you pay for title insurance.

6. Don't ask for a long escrow period.

7. Use the Realtors contract if property is listed.

8. closing costs are usually negotiable.

9. Make sure you state the zoning you expect, especially on multy-family properties.

10. If the house has contants, ask for everything you can.

11. Get legal description.

12. Check the deed for ownership when buying a FSBO and get a copy.

13. Ask for copy of survey and termite bond when applicable. (FSBO's only)

14. Get lenders address, account number and recent statement showing balance when buying FSBO's.

15. Get release authorization signed so you can order loan information from the lender when applicable.

16. If you're assuming a non-qualifying loan make sure you get the escrow account at no cost. Simply note on the contract.

17. Go through the seller's papers if possible and request all documents be brought to closing that you feel you'll need to help sell the property, such as a copy of the note and mortgage or trust deed.

18. Tell the seller to be sure and bring the payment book and keys to closing.

19. When taking over a loan subject to, be sure and get a CYA letter signed releasing you of liability and clarifying your agreement with seller.  Also, be sure to marke out the words "to be assumed", and replace with the words "taken subject to".

20. When giving a seller back a note, always ask for two or three months before interest begins.

21. Make sure to check the seller's deed when possible to insure you get all owners to sign the agreement.

22. Get the occupancy addendum signed if seller is to remain in the house after closing.

23. Get any necessary eddendum signed that may be required by your state law.