If you are really determined to buy a home this year, there are some important things you need to know before you begin. Just follow these five tips for less stress and more success when buying a home:

1. An important factor when you start house hunting is to making sure that you are ready to take the plunge. The reason why this is important is because once the papers are signed, the deal is done. Buying a home is a major investment that should be taken very seriously. Make sure that you are ready for the responsibility that comes along with it. If you do not think of it like this, you run the risk of losing the home.

2. Another important consideration for buying a home is where you want to live. It's critical that you check out the neighborhood before buying a home. Investigate the stores, the schools, the churches, and any other things that are important to you. It might be dance classes for your child. If you make sure that you have done your homework in this area, then you will be fine.

3. You do not have to go broke in order to buy a home. All you need to do is make sure that you can afford it. If your total debts with the home mortgage and expenses are 35% and lower than your total income, you should be fine. Make sure that no one talks you into anything else.

4. Instead of complicating your efforts to buy a home by looking at homes that are too expensive, try only inspecting homes that are within your budget. Too many times, we fall in love with a home that is too big and too expensive for us. Stay within reason and buy a home that is comfortable and affordable.

5. Have you considered leasing a home with option to buy? This is a good way to get the feel of a home and to see if you are comfortable. You will also see whether the home is in an area you like. Leasing is the same as renting but after a certain amount of time you can take the option to buy the home. Most times, a portion of your rent is put towards the down payment of the home. Be very careful, read the fine print of the lease agreement and try to negotiate the best terms to your benefit.

So if you really want to buy a home, follow these tips to enjoy the experience and the excitement. It will be a benefit to both you and your family.