First Time Home Buying - Seven Steps to Success

Your first-time home buying experience can be stressful and chaotic, or it can be smooth and easy. The difference comes from having a solid plan and knowing what to expect.

The following checklist will help make your home buying process a smooth one:

Step 1. Review your credit and finances.
Mortgage lenders will put your credit and finances under the microscope. So before you begin the home buying process, you should review these things for yourself.

Start by requesting a copy of your credit report from the big three credit agencies -- Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Review your credit report closely for errors. If you find an error, work to correct it right away, as the process takes time. For instructions on correcting your credit report, refer to the websites of the three agencies.

You should also review your finances to determine how much of a home you can comfortably afford. Use an online mortgage calculator to determine monthly payments based on total price. This will give you a rough idea of where your comfort zone lies.

Step 2. Learn about mortgages.
Once you've reviewed your finances, credit and purchasing power, you should start researching the different types of mortgages. Each type of mortgage has its pros and cons. Finding the one that's right for you will depend on many factors, such as how long you plan to own the home, how much you can afford to pay up front, etc.

When reading about the different types of mortgages, pay close attention to any sentence that starts with "This mortgage might be a good option for you if..."

Step 3. Visit HomeBuyingInstitute.com
At HBI, you can learn about the home buying process in depth. HBI is the Internet's largest library of home buying tips and advice, and best of all it's free!

Step 4. Make a wish list.
Now that you have a better understanding of the financial side of things, you can begin to create a home "wish list." Write down all the things you want from a home. Include the size, features, location, etc. Categorize each item on the list as a "need" or a "want." This list will save you time, narrow down your search, and help you stay focused.

Step 5. Find a good agent.
Even with all of the home buying information available online, it's a good idea to hire a professional real estate agent. When you consider how much money you'll pay for a new home, an agent's fee will seem miniscule by comparison. Combine that with the peace of mind you get from having professional guidance, and it's even more apparent why you should use an agent.

To find an agent, start by asking family or friends if they can refer a local agent they were happy with. If that doesn't produce any leads, try using search engines or the websites of well-known companies.

Step 6. Get pre-approved for a home loan.
Pre-approval from a mortgage lender will help you in several ways: (1) It will reveal how much you can realistically afford. (2) It will help you identify credit problems early on in the home buying process. (3) It will show sellers you're serious about buying (which can be helpful when there are multiple buyers / offers).

Step 7. Get a home inspection.
Whether you're buying a new home or an older one, a home inspection is always a good idea. Inspections cost around $500, which is a small price to pay for peace of mind. A home inspector will examine the home's roof, foundation, heating / cooling system and other important areas.