More Helpful Home Buying Tips:

Here are some more "house buying tips" and other resources to help you avoid costly mistakes when buying a new home!

Getting ready to buy your first home? Learn the basics for new home buyers from the experts - and avoid many of the most common house buying mistakes!

Buying a home - HUD

Real estate 101

Home-buying guide

Need help putting together your "wish list"? Learn what you need to include on your wish list - plus find the best neighborhoods, get free school reports, learn about the different home styles - so you can find the perfect home!

House buying needs & wants

Dream neighborhood finder

Free school district reports

Home types & styles

When it comes time to finding a realtor, take the time to hire the "right realtor" - whether you are buying or selling a home. Learn how & why to hire a realtor to help you buy your next house:

Why use a realtor

Should I hire a real estate agent or lawyer to buy a house?

Is your agent working for you?

How much house can you afford to buy? Find out BEFORE you start house hunting. Here are some loan calculators to help you estimate your home-buying budget:

How much house can you afford?

Buying vs. renting: which is right for you?

Average mortgage closing costs by state

So you've found a house you like - how much should you offer? The full asking price? Learn how to come up with the right offer when purchasing a new house:

How to make an offer

Making an offer on a house

Tips on making an offer to buy a home

Wondering if you really need to have a home inspected before you buy it? Here are some resources that explain on why you should always get a home inspected as part of the home buying process:

Do you really need a home inspection?

Get a house inspection before buying

Free home inspection checklist

Helpful resource:
American Home Inspector Directory - Home Inspections
Home inspector directory includes home inspectors from all respected home inspection organizations, providing you with a greater array of home inspectors from which to choose. Search local home inspectors in your area. Learn about home inspections, home inspection organizations and an online home inspection checklist.

If you've had any financial problems, it's a good idea to address them BEFORE you start the home buying process (so you get a better mortgage). Here are some tips for repairing your credit & getting out of debt faster:

Debt reduction tips

Credit repair: self help may be best

Financial motivation & inspiration