Know what you could possibly qualify for in a mortgage loan.

• Know your credit score

• Work with a loan officer

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Consider all costs when purchasing a home.

• Property taxes - can consist of school tax, county tax, and utility district tax

• HOA - Homeowners Association Fee - Collected by property owners, which helps to maintain and improve properties in that association.

• Property Inspection - Hire an inspector to check your home from top to bottom and receive a report of their findings. They will check the home's HVAC system, check for any water damage, plumbing, electrical, roof, attic, floors, windows, doors, foundation, basement, pest infestation, and structural damage.

• Closing Costs, Closing Costs, Closing Costs! - Closing costs include down payment and any processing fees you pay to your lender when you close on your loan. Closing costs on a mortgage loan usually equal 3 – 6% of your total loan.

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Be forthcoming with your agent

• Tell your agent everything - Let them know upfront any financial issues with your credit report.  Be detailed as possible with your homebuying goals.

• Take Notes - Your agent will keep a record of the homes you are shown, make sure you keep a list of homes you are interested in, make a list of your likes and dislikes of each home.  

• Stay positive throughout the process - Things come up such as delayed closings, the homes you want are suddenly under contract, it is taking time to find the home you want.  Things happen, it is life, but remember, the outcome is to purchase your home.  

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Work with a professional that is knowledgeable of the real estate industry.  This will alleviate a lot of the stresses attached with purchasing your new home.  Remember to remain positive and trust your realtor to get it right for you.