Speed is now essential for those hoping to buy a home before the expiration of the first-time homebuyers tax credit Nov. 30. For those working with a buyers agent, the process of finding and closing on the right residence will go much more quickly if you are up-front about your finances and what it is you want in the property you buy.

To help you find the right house, and in some cases even help you obtain financing, your agent is going to need to know your financial picture. So come to the homebuying process prepared to deal openly and honestly with your agent, and, of course, demand the same in return. Agents are required to keep your information confidential, and they risk losing their license and worse if they do not.