1. How to prepare to be able to buy a home It is very likely that we will all purchase a piece of property at some point. Taking steps now to prepare will help you once you are ready. I have worked in property for Eight years. My husband and I bought our first house two years ago. Buying our house was a stressful but fun adventure!

2. Steps to take when you are considering buying your house: Buying a home means that the interest that you pay toward your mortgage each month is eligible for tax write offs. If means that you are vested in your community. Being a home owner also means that rent is not simply being thrown down the drain but that you will likely see a return at some point. Meet with a financial advisor: I suggest three different ones. If you have an established relationship with a bank or credit union, start there. Why three opinions? It helps to have three different points of view. One lender may have different offers then another. One may have more experience. Follow the advise they give: How much to save, what to expect for a down payment, what loans may be best for you. Benefits

3. Know Before You Go: What you want: A condo, townhouse, single family home with what amenities? Are you handy with a hammer or would you want something that will be low maintenance? KNOW what you can afford: This is VERY important to know ahead of time. Look in and understand what is in your price. What you need: What school district do you want to be in? Do you want easy access to shops? Or something more urban or something for suburban? What about freeway access? Will you need wheelchair access? If you are looking at a planned community are they pet friendly?

4. How does the local housing market compare with the housing troubles nationwide? Economists point to positives but others advise caution. Deciding when to buy is up to you. I personally think the market hasn’t quite bottomed out and I think it will take a few years to recover from the damage that has occurred.

5. Now may not be the right moment to for you to buy a house as an investment, but now is the time to become ready to buy. If you need to buy or ready to buy, there are incredible deals to be found in mortgage rates, property values and tax benefits. I challenge you to Start making your goals today so that you are ready for tomorrow.