How to find a home...

Look, I'm no expert. This is my first time out of the blocks. And its been pretty overwhelming. But, here's where I've net out and how I got there. Some helpful tips for those planning on buying one day...

• Find out your FICO score - this will give you a realistic view on what interest rate/range you'll be paying
  
  
• Create your "list" - must haves, would like to haves, and must not haves. (for instance, snippets on my list include: I must have 2 bedrooms, would like to have a fireplace, and must not have a hood with bars on the windows.)
  
  
• Get pre-qualified (and preferably, pre-approved for a loan) - this helps you determine what your price range will be.
  
  
• Make your HONEST monthly budget - how much can you afford to pay for mortgage monthly after you eat out, pay for your car, buy your mom's birthday gift, and get your hair did?

• Save at least 3.5% of your highest possible price for a down payment - if you qualify for an FHA (first time home owners (ummm...not sure what the A stands for), you need only to put down 3.5% of the purchase price. Still, that could come to about $15k - $20k.

• Find an agent you like and trust - I found my guy on Yelp after having worked with 2 others in the beginning. I really like him and trust that he'll help me git 'er dun!

• Look, look, look - I look a lot online (craigslist, ziprealty, redfin) and then I go to about 3-5 open houses a weekend. I've already viewed almost 30 properties.

• Be patient & believe - this is a huge step. Don't rush. Don't be bullied. Don't be talked into. Believe that you'll find your perfect home and don't make a move until you do.

I'm not at the final stages yet, but I feel pretty good how far I've come. I was so overwhelmed at first and now, I'm feeling confident. I'm gonna own my own home one day...soon...