If you're looking to make buying your first home your biggest goal this year, it’s crucial that you lay the groundwork as early as you can. And it’s important, especially in today’s competitive housing market.

Fortunately, there are some pretty simple but huge steps you can take to get into the home-buying game on a strong footing. By understanding the ins and outs of the process and doing as much preparation, you’ll be empowered to make the best decisions to be able to purchase your dream home.







1. Educate yourself about the home buying process.
There are many avenues where buyers, especially first-time buyers, can educate themselves about home buying and homeownership. You can start with various credible online articles, real estate blogs, and enroll in homebuyer education programs and courses usually offered by the government and other housing counseling agencies.
Educating yourself will help you become confident in your decision-making ...