The first step to buying your house is to decide how you will pay for the purchase. If you do not have all the money to buy it in cash, then you must go to a mortgage company to receive a loan pre-approval. If you do not know where to start, remember that real estate agents are good sources for this type of information.

Establish your needs

Once you are pre-approved and know how much they will lend you and how your payments will be made, make a list of everything you would like in a house, and make sure you are realistic in your expectations. Remember that if it’s your first home, chances are you will not stay with it until you retire and it will not be the castle of your dream’s.

Do your homework

The internet has revolutionized the home buying process and there are many tools at your disposal to help you find your home.

You can search for properties according to a series of filters based on the number of rooms and bathrooms, location, schools, etc. Remember that both pages are powered by the MLS system (system used by real estate agents) and sometimes the information is not completely updated.

Real estate agencies also have web pages that will assist you in your search.

If you find a house that catches your attention, keep it and even if you do not end up buying it, it will help your agent to better understand your tastes.

Hire a professional

An experienced real estate agent who works full time in your profession will be an invaluable source of resources to help you in the buying process. The agent will provide you with lists of houses in your budget, show you the houses and accompany you throughout the purchase process, from signing the offer to closing.