The most important step is to find an agent who you know you can trust. Ask your friends and famiy for references, and then do your homework. You can tell alot about an agent just by having a discussion with them. Find an agent who cares about you and your particular situation, and who isn't in a hurry. Stephen Covey, says that "people don't care what you know until they know that you care" If you do the research, you will find an agent who cares. They do exist, and they will take good care of you. They will direct you through the entire process, and it will be an enjouyable experience. Good Luck!

The most important factor in any relationship is simply...trust. Buying a house is all baby steps. Start with a Realtor that a good friend used and trusted and go from there. Shop open house to look for an agent that you feel comfortable with. If I was you, I would find an agent that looks at the big picture, one that will be your trusted professional for many years to come. He can guide you through the process. Lots of big decisions to make. Most importantly, take your time and don't let anybody hurry you!

Steps 1- 10 of NAR's list is the syllabus for a First Time Home Buyer's class.

Jennifer, You've taken a good first step by looking online for answers. As you can see, everyone has their own opinion. Some suggest speaking with a real estate professional and others a lender.

This website contains the 10 steps recommended by the National Association of Realtors(R).
http://www.realtor.org/rmotoolkits.nsf/pages/buyer11?OpenDocument

When you are ready to speak with a lender, I suggest contacting at least 3. Each will run your credit and if approved, are required to give you a Good Faith Estimate. You need to take your time and review the numbers placed on each report. Some will have "errors". Some lenders will charge for pre-approval and others will provide this free of charge.

If you are relocating, you need to find out if your employer is assisting or requiring use of certain companies or real estate agents. Some will allow you to submit an agents name.

Please remember, that there are many Federal and State Laws preventing real estate professionals from assisting you on selecting an area to live.

If you need any assistance feel free to contact me, there is no obligation or cost.

Your first step, before you contact a real estate agent or a lender, should be education for yourself. Find a First Time Home Buyer program presented by your city, county or state.

It is very important to find a Realtor that you are comfortable with and that you can trust. If your friends or relatives refer you to a Realtor that's great. Be certain that they know the area well and that you are comfortable with them. Another good source is the Real Estate Buyers Agency Council (REBAC), you can use the following link to find a Realtor in your area that has earned the Accredited Buyers Agent (ABR) designation. This will assure that the agent is well versed in working on behalf of buyers, ABR's have the additional training and experience to specialize in assisting home buyers.

http://www.rebac.net/MembershipDirectorySearch.aspx

Good Luck!

Gordon

Knowing how much house you can afford is important, however, finding a Realtor that you feel comfortable with is as important. A Realtor can assist you with suggested mortgage brokers, attorneys, inspection companies, etc.. Do you know what area you wish to buy in? Ask someone you trust, family and friends, to get the name an agent - call them and meet with them. You will see that throughout the process, a Realtor is an extremely valuable asset, from the point of considering purchasing a home right through closing. Buying a home can be stressful and making the decision to work with someone who is professional, experienced, successful and patient means alot! It's a great time to purchase a home - Good luck!

One of the first items in your list should be to speak to your mortgage loan officer where you do your banking. Ask them about first time home buyer programs. The loan officer will review your credit and be able to tell you the amount that you would prequalify for in a loan.
Once you know what it is that you can spend, then begin the search for a Real Estate Agent to represent you. Ask friends and relatives for who they have worked with, visit open houses and speak to agents there. Once you find an agent to work with, they should have the experience to guide you through the process. Good luck!