Most first time home buyers should remember that buying their dream homes as their first home isn't feasible nor is it realistic. When looking at homes, first time home buyers should consider location, appreciation, and over all potential.

You will also want to find a good Realtor to help you find the right home in the right area for your lifestyle. Your mortgage broker should be able top recommend a few good Realtors to help you.

Home financing is long past the old days of saving 20% for a down payment. It is quite common for homebuyers to finance 100% of their home purchase. There are many programs that make this an affordable approach. Make sure you have a good mortgage consultant to help you balance your ability to get a loan with your ability to pay for the loan.

First you must get yourself prequalified with a mortgage professional. Understand your credit and your credit score. Determine if there is anything you can do to improve your score while you search for that perfect home.

During the prequalification process your mortgage professional will also help you determine how much of a monthly payment you can afford. This will help you determine the price range of the property you should be thinking about purchasing.

You also should try to determine how long you intend to stay in the property. Some programs and products are more beneficial than others for those who may be in a starter home for 5 years or so. Be sure to sit down and determine what you feel you can afford to pay each month. Sometimes you may qualify for much more or less than you may feel you can pay towards your monthly housing obligation. Make a checklist of future debt or income changes as well.