Purchasing a home in Winnipeg over the last 10 years has proven to be a challenge for many. I have heard of cases where as many as 16 offers have been made before a buyer has been successful. How does one put the odds in their favor? Buying a home is a process, not an event in any market in any city. Preparation and understanding the rules of engagement are key. Whether trying to buy a home privately or through a real estate agent, you must get your ducks in order starting with financing. This is the critical 1^st step. There are some very good rates out there and looking at just one option could prove costly. Many times, you can save thousands over the life of a mortgage by simply tweaking one small item. Once you have been qualified, the next step is determining how much you want to spend and the areas where you want to live. Research is the key. You can find lots of great information on the web, or you can hire a real estate agent to help you determine what is best for you. The problem with the latter choice is like all salespeople, most of them have the equation back wards and they forget that this whole exercise is about and for YOU, not them. After 23 years of being in this industry, it does not surprise me when I read about statistics from a recent poll that determined 69% of the people who dealt with a real estate agent would not go back to the same person. The main reason..COMMUNICATION. Take the time to meet with some one before you go out and look at any house. Determine through questions that they are going to represent YOUR best interests at ALL times. Simply calling an agent who has a property for sale is a recipe for disaster; after all, they are not in a position to represent your best interests. Unfortunately, many of my peers do not tell this to the consumer which leads to problems down the road and the 69% ratio of unhappy consumers. For a Strategic Recipe on How to Avoid Bidding Wars, drop me an email. I welcome your thoughts and comments. A High Level of Service is not Expensive..Its Priceless.