You are about to own your first home, you are excited! It’s a whole new experience and you can’t wait to get started. But first, there are a few things you must know before you dive in headfirst. Buying a new home can be an overwhelming experience, more so when it’s your first time. You might be tempted to make a quick buy when you see homes going off the market in mere weeks and seemingly attractively priced homes. Unfortunately, making such a mistake might cause a strain on your financial goals. You sure don’t want to keep paying a mortgage when you are retired. 

As they say, what is worth doing, is worth doing well. You want to get it right the first time. Don’t anyone trick you into believing that you can’t buy a home you love at a great price that won’t hurt you financially. Here are some tips to make your first-time home purchasing a happy one.

1. Be Debt-free and Have An Emergency Savings Fund
   Owning a home is great but it comes with its own dose of responsibility. When you do an initial calculation, it may be cheaper than paying your current rent or at the same rate. However, you would need to also put into consideration that the home is now your full responsibility, meaning you are now responsible for utilities, maintenance, etc. You don’t want to have debt while trying to set up your new home. Do be mindful of your spending though. You want to be debt-free and stay that way.
2. Calculate What You Can Afford
   Before you start house hunting, determining what you can afford. It’s easy to fall in love with a house at first sight, just make sure that the house is within your budget. Calculate your monthly budget to help you determine the price range of a house you can afford. Keep in mind other costs such as housing costs (tax, insurance, etc.). These costs should not be more than 25% of your monthly take-home income. Insurance and homeowners tax vary, so endeavor to factor that in when determining your price range.
3. Save For A Down Payment
   Not everyone is capable of paying the total price of a house up front, and that’s ok. However, if you can’t pay all at once, ensure you have at least 20% for a down payment. You may be thinking of going for private mortgage insurance or first-time homeowner program, they may sound great, but they cost you more at the end. Whatever plan you choose, ensure you are not in debt for longer than necessary. 
4. Find A Home In Your Price Range
   Searching for a home in your price range helps you save time and effort. You also don’t get emotionally attached to homes you can’t afford. Search for homes in your range online and send them to your real estate agent. Your real estate agent now knows what you want and can find suitable homes that meet your criteria.
5. Find a Neighborhood
   Finding a home in your price range is great, however, finding it in a great neighborhood makes it even better. You want to find out about things like crime rate, types of schools, how long your commute would be to work, supermarket, or hospital. Visit the neighborhood at different times, on different days to check the level of traffic, noise, and friendliness of neighbors. Your new home should be comfortable for you and your family. 

Buying your first home is a huge step and you sure want to get this right. A real estate agent can help you make the process easier and see the deal to a favorable closing.