Below is a quick stepped guide on how you should be proceeding for buying the home.
Step 1: Pre-Qualification
Meet with a mortgage lender and see if you can get pre-qualified for a loan. You can also see how much you will be able to afford to pay for a home. Sellers will be much more responsive to serious buyers who are pre-qualified.
Step 2: Know What you Want
Make a list of what you need and want in a home. This takes some careful thinking and planning. Once you know exactly what you are looking for in a home, your real estate agent will be able to begin searching for your dream home.
Step 3: Get Professional Representation
Hiring a real estate professional will ensure that each step in the home buying process is as stress-free as possible. Your representative will be able to provide you with essential market information and recommendations on ideal properties that fit your criteria.
Step 4: Be Objective
Often enough, first time buyers get emotional when purchasing their first home. It is important to keep an objective state of mind and think with your head, rather than your heart. Does this home really meet your requirements? With so many homes on the market, there is no need to make a hurried decision that you will regret in the future.
Step 5: Home Inspection
Acquiring the services of a professional home inspector can save you thousands of dollars in the long-run. A home inspector will evaluate the home and reveal any repairs or damages that need to be fixed. Being aware of any structural damage to the home before closing will prevent you from being liable for any repairs in the future.