Determine your budget: Before you start house hunting, know how much you can afford. Consider your income, monthly expenses, and future financial goals. Be sure to factor in costs like down payments, closing costs, and moving expenses.

Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Pre-approval shows sellers you're a serious buyer and gives you a better understanding of how much you can borrow. Book an appointment with a Loan Advisor to find the best mortgage rates and terms.

Establish your must-haves and deal-breakers: Make a list of your essential features and those you can compromise on. Consider factors like the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, location, school district, and neighborhood amenities.

Work with a reputable real estate agent: A good agent will help you navigate the market, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure you're making informed decisions. Choose an agent who is familiar with the area and has a track record of success.

Research the market: Familiarize yourself with the local market and trends, including average home prices, inventory levels, and time on the market. This information can help you gauge how competitive the market is and what to expect during the home buying process.

Attend open houses and viewings: Visit as many homes as possible to get a better understanding of what's available and how they compare to your must-haves and deal-breakers. Take notes and photos to help you remember details and compare properties.

Be patient and flexible: The home buying process can take time, especially in a competitive market. Be prepared to adjust your expectations or make compromises if necessary. Stay patient and trust the process.

Make a competitive offer: Work with your agent to determine a fair offer based on comparable homes in the area and the seller's situation. Be prepared to negotiate and make counteroffers if necessary.

Get a home inspection: Once your offer is accepted, hire a professional home inspector to assess the property's condition. This can help identify potential issues and allow you to negotiate repairs or a price adjustment before closing.

Prepare for closing: Review all documents carefully, and be prepared to pay closing costs, which can include lender fees, title fees, and taxes. Obtain homeowners insurance and finalize your mortgage. On closing day, do a final walkthrough to ensure the home is in the agreed-upon condition.