best answers have already been given, so i will reiterate GET PRE QUALIFIED and then shop for the home. Do not assume you qualify for a certain amount. A good realtor will make sure you do not start shopping with him/her prior to prequal, since showing you a more expensive home wil only lead the others to look less desirable. Best wishes.

Hi W,

I'm assuming by your question that you are a first-time buyer?

The best thing you can do so that you know where you stand financially is to meet with a reputable lender and get preapproved. Why? Because when you *do* start the process of searching for a home, you'll want to have the peace of mind that, when it comes time to make an offer, you can truly afford the home you want. It will also make any offer you make that much stronger.

Secondly, when you are ready to start searching for homes, I, too, would recommend working with a good Realtor- perhaps one that specializes in the area(s) in which you are interested. Why? Because Realtors often have inside information gleened from the MLS, their colleagues, and just plain old experience, that the general public doesn't have. And they are happy to pass that on to their clients in the interest of serving them and helping them make the smartest decisions about their investment. And, the best part? Using a buyer's agent costs you nothing!

And no worries, just because you are working with a Realtor doesn't mean you have to stop searching for homes on your own. You are still welcome to browse all of the online and print classifieds, and when you see something you like, just pass it on your Realtor, if she hasn't already presented it to you. Chances are there's a good reason she didn't make you aware of it, and she will then be able to give you insight into each property and help you decide whether or not it's a good fit for you based on your needs.

Finally, when you do find a home and your offer is accepted, make sure to get an inspection performed by a licensed, reputable inspector. Though some people balk at spending the money, it's money well-spent that can potentially save you thousands of dollars should a hidden, costly defect be discovered.

Good luck to you in your home search!

The first step is to decide where you want to buy. Many first time buyers make the mistake of choosing too large an area for their search..forinstance saying I want to buy in Los Angeles or Chicago or New York.. that's too broad an area . Usually the defining factor is how far will you commute to work. Once you have made that decision then start with Realtor.com to get an idea of prices for the area. next visit a few open houses to see what is being offered in your price range and talk with a few agents... if you are not comfortable giving out your name tell the agent that you don't want to be contacted at this time.. If you have friends in the area ask them for referrals to an agent. Another good way to find agents is to see who has a strong web presence and who is blogging about the area and read what they write. Finally interview a few agents.. either by calling them or meeting them in person.
If you choose to not use an agent then be sure you are aware that you will not have representation during the transaction and consider having an attorney review any documentation before you sign anything. This is even more vital should you decided to buy FSBO. Contact a "real estate attorney" in the area.. it is important that you choose an attorney who specializes in real estate law... as real estate law is very different from civil law.
Good Luck in your search.

Artur is right, Realtor.com is one of the best resources you can check.

It is not that I don't belive in using a Realtor. However, I believe that more client knows and understands about market and how to find a good agent, better of he/she will be. Nothing beats your own research to start with.

I happen to agree with David, there are no substitutes for using a Realtor, if you wish to seek the best possible negotiation before you purchase. Afterall, the buyers agent doesn't get paid if she/he doesn't do their job. Best wishes !

I hate to sound like a Realtor but, first get approved for a loan from several lenders. Second, find a good Realtor that has worked with someone you know and trust. If you have to ask what is the first step, you probably need a Realtor. The seller pays the commission so why wouldn't you want to use a Realtor? I got into this business with the simple conviction of my clients best interests and the rest will work itself out. It really is a lengthy answer and it's past my bedtime. Contact me tomorrow if you have further questions. Good luck to you.

Hi,
The only way today to find home (almost) anywhere is http://www.realtor.com. Major brokers (Remax, Caldwell, Pridential, etc.) might help you too. Trulia, as you most likely know, is for now only in 3 metropolitan areas.

Find a good realtor and he/she will guide you through the process.

Good luck!