For most people, purchasing a home is the single largest investment they will ever make, but it isn't only about dollars and cents. Purchasing a home is about having a place to call your own home, designed to suit your tastes and needs. A home is a place where you can lay down your roots, start a family, grow as a family, and make memories to last you a lifetime. In short, it's about defining your own personal sense of home.

Because buying your first home is likely the biggest financial decision you'll ever make, you should educate yourself as deeply as possible before you take that momentous step.  Continue reading to find out more!

Ten Steps to Purchase your First Home!

1. Choose a real estate professional  (I would very much appreciate if you choose me!). The real estate professional will be able to assist you in every step of the way, from your initial property search to closing. For these steps, you'll want to have a real estate agent by your side to explain the process and because buying a home requires a ton of unfamiliar paperwork.
2. Obtain a copy of your credit and know your credit score, your score will affect your ability to get a mortgage and the interest rate.
3. Get pre- approved for a mortgage, you will gain a better understanding of how much home you can afford.
4. To make your search a successful and enjoyable one, it is crucial that you identify the things you need (must have) and the things you want (like-to-have). Compromising is often necessary.
5. You found the house, made an offer and reached a pending agreement with seller. Now it's time for you to formally apply for a mortgage. To complete the application your lender will want to know your household income, assets, existing debts and regular expenses. These types of documents you'll need to provide include bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns and other documentation. Lastly, once you qualify for a loan, be prepared for the lender to have the home professionally appraised to ensure that it's worth the purchase price.
6. You should also hire your own home inspector to point out potential problems that may require expensive repairs.
7. Getting a title search - you'll need a historical review of all legal documents related to ownership of the property to ensure there are no claims against the property. Also, it's very important to purchase Title insurance for protection in the event of errors in the records or mistakes in the review process.
8. Conducting the final walk through - this is your chance to take a look at the home one last time to ensure it's in the same condition as when you signed the sale agreement.
9. Completing the settlement - Closing date, you will sign all the paperwork required to complete the transaction. The settlement will induce paying your closing costs, legal fees, property adjustments and transfer taxes. At that point, you'll receive the property title and copies of all documentation pertaining to the purchase.
10. Jump for joy!  You are now a homeowner.  Congratulations!  You get the keys to your new home.