Buying your very first home? Congrats! Before you commit to buying one, here are some quick simple tips we have come up with for buying your first home.

Contact a mortgage company or bank and get pre-qualified first. You will then know how much of a loan you qualify for, and how much out-of-pocket cash you will need to pay. They will also let you know how much of a down payment you will need to pay so you can save for it ahead of time.

Contact a real estate agent. It’s a smart idea to ask family and friends for a referral of someone who they’ve used before and has a good reputation. You can also check real estate listings websites online for referrals and reviews.

Create a checklist of the things you want in your new home (example: commuting distance, square footage, lot size, timeframe, school district), as well as absolute musts, what you require for a new home for you and your family.

Go with your realtor to look at potential homes that match your checklist. It might take some time to find the perfect fit for you, so be prepared for a potentially long search ahead.

Select a home and then make an offer. Be patient. This may take several tries and you may have to up your offer or — in some cases — write a letter explaining why you would be the best buyer. You may be competing with tons of people for this home. Don’t be surprised if the current homeowner doesn’t accept it and instead accepts another family’s offer and you have to move onto another home.

Go through the appraisal, home inspection (with a qualified and certified home inspector) and closing process.

Close and get the keys to your new home. And then throw an awesome housewarming party!