These tips came from a survey of 400 real estate professionals. These items are listed in order of importance, from most to least.

1. Get a home inspection to evaluate the safety and overall condition of the home
2. Before you start your house hunting, get pre-approved for a mortgage
3. Direct all communications with the seller through your real estate agent
4. Get all agreements with the seller in writing
5. Include important contingences in your offer, such as, financing and inspections
6. Come up with realistic expections for a house based upon your budget

Source: Market Leader.com