Alan J. Heavens reported in the June 2, 2013 issue of Philly.com that the real estate market in Philadelphia has started to show signs of recovery, and that homes for sale in Philadelphia are getting multiple offers. He added that sales have gone up (which has never happened since the economic crisis that gripped the US in 2007) and houses are getting sold fast. To get the best buy for you and your family, here are some shopping tips for your new Philadelphia home.

Budget

As a general rule, know how much you can afford and aim for the property that suits your budget. Tally your expenses and if you think these won't allow you to purchase your dream home just yet, then you'd have to postpone for a while, or at least minimize the non-essentials. Save up, and when you're financially prepared, go for it.

Go Mortgage Shopping

Learn the interest rates and terms that different lenders offer. The two primary types of mortgages are fixed-rate and adjustable rate. A fixed rate mortgage has a set interest rate that will not vary for the duration of the loan, and total payment remains the same. The adjustable rate mortgage has changing interest rates but initial payments are low, and borrowers can get a larger loan.

Hire a Home Inspection Team

You don't want your ceiling falling off right when you're moving in. Hire a home contractor to look at the integrity of the structure, and to inspect for any pests that may have taken over the property while unoccupied. They can tell you the actual condition of the home, and whether or not repairs are necessary.

Find an Experienced Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent is your best ally if you finally decide to get your own place, and industry leaders like Joanne Davidow can help you find a property in the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia. They can show you both homes for sale and rent in various Center City neighborhoods.

Buying a house is a serious decision. Whether you're considering houses or condos in Philadelphia, make sure that you have a trusted real estate agent by your side. Your decision to move in to Philadelphia just might be a sign of better things to come for you and your family.