Success in the buying or selling of a home depends almost entirely on two factors: how well educated you are about the process and how well prepared you are to embark on the venture. If you take the time to learn and prepare, everything that follows should, for the most part, go smoothly. And if an obstacle does pop up, you’ll be able to deal with it. In Consumer’s Guide to Buying/Selling Homes in St. Louis, Stafford Manion details his agency’s winning formula, from early phases like setting a realistic asking price to contract negotiations to closing . Among topics covered are: How to proceed in a buyer’s market vs. a seller’s market How to “be diligent” when choosing a real estate agency Where to look for the best available properties The language of real estate contracts How contract contingencies can work for – or against – you. The importance of open houses How to use the Internet and other tools to maximum advantage Offers and counter offers The ins and outs of “For Sale by Owner” Many steps need to be taken in order to make the giant leap into a closing in which both the buyer and seller are satisfied. Here, Mr. Manion provides you with the tools that are essential for such a seamless, efficient transaction. You will be packing your things in no time!