A real-estate agent won't be inclined to show you properties if you're not truly interested in purchasing something, but if you are planning a purchase, working with an agent to view properties is definitely a good way to get an overview of the market. Another option is to attend as many open houses as possible. Viewing FSBO properties is a third way for you to evaluate properties that are for sale in your area.

Keep accurate records of all the properties you visit. If an agent gives you multiple listing sheets, make notes on them to help you remember the specifics of each property. Most sellers prepare handouts for potential buyers — keep them. Keep open-house flyers, too, jotting down your recollections of each property. A FSBO seller might feel uncomfortable if you take interior photos, but if they'll allow it, do it.

Pick up real-estate for-sale publications that are distributed in your area. They're free and usually distributed at real-estate agencies, grocery stores, gas stations, and other similar locations. Don't miss reading your local classifieds. Search the Internet for listings in your area. If you spend enough time researching properties, it won't take long to become accustomed to typical real-estate prices in your area.

Once you know that a property has been sold, research your local public records to find its sales price. If you're not sure how to do that, ask the staff who work in the records department to show you how to find the information.

If you're serious about real estate, public records will be one of the first items you look at to find details about a property. While you're researching, keep in mind that the amount the owner paid for a property has nothing to do with its current value. The prior sales amount doesn't show you improvements that have been made and it isn't a reflection of the property's appreciation or current condition. You expect your own property values to appreciate over the time — so do sellers.

The best way to alienate a seller is to remind them what they paid for the property and use that figure to justify a low offer. Sellers know what they paid for the property, and they very likely know what it's worth now. If you expect future negotiations to be amicable, don't come across as an arrogant buyer who has no regard for the true value of someone else's property. That tactic usually backfires.

There are many factors to consider before you make an offer to purchase any piece of residential real estate. Facts about restrictions, easements, rights-of-way, and property boundaries are important details that help you determine the limitations and best use for a property. When you know its best use, you're closer to making a determination of its value.

You'll feel more confident about your buying and selling decisions when you become an active participant in property research and stay informed about the real-estate market where you are participating. Acquiring that knowledge takes time and dedication on your part. It won't happen overnight, but when it does, you'll be able to make speedy judgments about current and potential market values.