[margaretmattson]

I understand your thread is specifically about contracts. But, your question "What happens first?" caught my eye. IMO, first you should investigate the neighborhood and surroundings. You do not want to end up with a home that has outside issues. Drive around the neighborhood, listen for noise, pay attention to the traffic, talk to the neighbors and ask if there are many rentals, visit the recreation areas to see how crowded, and any other issues you feel are important. Investigate several times at different times of the day. I was forced to move because of renters. Others move because of traffic, noisy neighborhood, incessant dog barking, etc.

It costs a lot of money to move if you find the neighborhood and surroundings are not what you anticipated. Realtor fees to sell alone can be $25,000+. Do not make an expensive mistake. Remember: Your agent's primary focus is receiving a commission. YOU are the one who will have to put up with the problems after moving in. DO YOUR RESEARCH