Planning to buy a home? Are you sure? If you answered “Yes”, be sure to bring your checkbook. There’s only one way to buy a home – take action.

The national news channels ran a story not long ago that said there is only a 4-week supply of homes on the market right now. In the same story they reported that the national average for mortgage loans was 5.7%. Although that is the national average, rates may be higher or lower by the time you read this column.

The important thing to remember is that the housing market is “HOT!” Americans are placing more emphasis on home and family these days. They’re placing incredible demand on the existing housing supply. In some instances, buyers are competing with each other for the same house – bidding even more than the asking price. Homes are in short supply.

If you really plan to buy a home, be prepared to act when you find the perfect place. That means securing a mortgage loan commitment before beginning your home search. It also means being prepared to make a purchase offer on the spot and write a check for the earnest money deposit. Each of these actions assures a successful purchase.

Regardless of what you’ve been reading about the national economy, one thing stands out - it’s a great time to buy a home. Be ready!