Donny:
First take a deep breath..okay breath..whew...lol..


My suggestions would be:

1) figure out what you can comfortably afford each month. Honestly-still have a life and take someone special out to dinner ofter..

2) when you have your "number" then call a mortgage broker and inquire about the types of product he/she has for instants are you looking for a convential mortgage or an FHA mortgage or a FHA 203K rehab mortgage. If your not sure..google it and figure what will work for you

3)After you have done some homework, the call a realtor who knows the marketplace. Interview two or three or better yet-call the office ask for the manager and see if they can recommend a realtor who specializes in First time homebuyers.

4) when you have your realtor he/she will send you listings of what you would like in a home.I call it a "wish list" give me everything you wish for and then what you will settle for..Easy!!!

5) pick 3-4 homes call the broker and go out and enjoy the preview.

6)after the preview-write down after EVER house you see notes positive and negative..EASY!

7) It is rare you will find "THE HOUSE" on the first trip- you may. In the sixteen years of selling this has happened three times to me..

8) Be realistic to your budget and DO NOT GO OVER your budget even if your heart will be broken!!



Hope this was helpful to you!

Betty Stroll ABR,GRI,CIPS,SFR
William Raveis Real Estate

The first place to start is with your budget. Determine exactly what you can afford montly. This number has to include your mortgage, mortgage insurance if necessary, homeowners insurance and property taxes.

Next you need to pre-qualify for a loan. Research lenders rates & fees and with their help determine how much you can qualify for.

Then find a realtor you like and start looking at houses. The realtor can inform you of any additional fees or expenses you may incur.

Then protect your investment by having it inspected by a professional home inspector. They will inform you of the condition of the home and let you know about any problems there may be. Afterwards, if that house is for you - buy it. If not - keep looking until you find the home that's right for you.