Check for listings, neighborhood information, current mortgage information and home ownership services. The right amount of research will help you to better understand the marketplace and homes available in your price range when you’re ready to work with a real estate professional.

To help make the home buying process a little easier, create a checklist of the important features you're looking for in a home. Also, think about what matters in terms of location. What’s the commute to work going to be? What schools, parks, or shopping centers are nearby?

Understand that real estate is about compromise. Most buyers prioritize three main things: price, size, and location. Realistically, you can expect to achieve only two of three things. Such trades off are par for the course.

Be prepared for counter-offers from other buyers and some negotiation with the seller, but once you find the right house, make an offer. If an offer is accepted, it goes to the contract phase.

Don’t purchase a home or make any payments without doing your due diligence. Add contingencies to your contract- you have the right to back out of the deal if something goes horribly wrong. Contingencies to consider are the home inspection, financing, and appraisal.

Inspectors will check the house for any structural damage. In the contract with the seller, it should state any necessary repairs that must be made before closing on the house. Prior to closing, walk through the house and check that such repairs have been completed.

There are a number of tax breaks homeowners may not be aware of. Mortgage interest deductions is a boon for brand new mortgages, which are typically interest heavy. If you purchase discount points from your mortgage, essentially pre-paying you interest, these are also deductible. Some states and municipalities may offer mortgage credit certifications, which allows first time home buyers to claim a tax credit for some of the mortgages interest paid.