It’s an exciting moment — you found a home you love, and you’re ready to make an offer. You’re ready to take the next step — and it’s a big one — on your journey from househunter to homeowner.

Even in the midst of all the excitement, though, it’s easy to worry whether you’re doing things right. If you offer too much, the bank might not approve your loan. If you offer too little, the seller might reject the offer without a counteroffer from which you can negotiate. In addition, you need to think carefully about how to protect yourself if something goes wrong between now and closing. Read more...