1. Find a Buyer's agent.  They only perform one job and that is to get you into the best home, for the best price ,and with the least amount of hassles.

2. Be as honest as you can with your agent.  They cannot help you if they don't understand your wants and needs.  Also keep them updated on your wants and needs should they change.  Remember not everyone can read your mind.

3.  Become an approved buyer.  Consult with a mortgage loan officer.  Know what you can afford.  Often, your buyer's agent will have a choice of lenders in the area where you are purchasing to ensure a seamless transaction. 

4. Know where you want to live.  Consult your friends, family, and co-workers.  Get the opinions from the people who live there already.  Research the school systems if they are important to you. 

5. When choosing a location, be sure you test the commuting distance and time. Take a test drive during rush hour and other times of concern.

6. If you are buying with someone else, do your best to be on the same page with what your wants and needs are.  It is very difficult for your agent to split two homes in half and glue them together.

7. Have realistic expectations of your wants and needs and how that translates into price.  Be prepared to get 80% of what you want, it is almost impossible to find anything that is 100%.

8. After you have found a home and submitted an offer you are now in contract.  Be diligent in adhearing to the dates you committed too. The seller is relying on you to move forward faithfully to closing.  Should any problems arise, be in constant communication with your agent.  They can't help you if they can't talk to you. 

9. Remember not to get too excited or angry about issues that may not be pleasant.  There is always a solution to every problem.

10. Have a great closing! You deserve to be happy and have a home that will be a source of wonderful moments for years to come!