Here are 10tips to read if you are planning on buying a home soon:

Do Not Spend Your Money
Do not make any large purchases 3 to 6 months prior to buying a home as this affects your credit.

Get Pre-Approved For a Mortgage
Before you start your home search, you need to know how much you can afford. Consult with a mortgage loan officer for pre-approval for a loan. And remember, besides the cost of the home there are other monetary factors such as insurance, taxes and home maintenance costs.

Get a Copy of Your Credit Report
Go to AnnualCredit Report.com and request a free copy of your report. If there are any errors or issues, you will need to get them resolved.

The Biggest Home
The biggest home on the block make look enticing, but it may not be the best investment. The home you buy will only go up in value as compared to other nearby homes. It is best to first look at overall home values in the area you want to purchase before making an offer.

It’s Not Done Until It’s Done
Do not fall in love with a home in the beginning. Something may happen – you may be in multi-offer situation or find a structural issue when the home is inspected. Do not let your emotions take over as you may need to find another home to “love”.

Making An Offer
Your offer should be what you believe the property is worth and is reasonable. Your low bid may not work in your favor. It all depends upon what is currently going on in the market.

Get To Know the Neighborhood
Before you purchase a home, be sure to visit the home at various times of day and evening to get a feel for traffic patterns. And, be sure to find out how close important stores and services are to the home for convenience sake.

Do Not Buy If You Are Not Going To Stay
You need to make a commitment to your new home for a least a few years. Otherwise, you may end up losing money if you try to sell any sooner.

Get the Home Inspected
Before closing on the purchase of a home, be sure to have it professionally inspected to make sure your investment is a sound one.

Use a Real Estate Agent
Your agent can provide lots of information and guidance. Look to your agent for market analyses of areas and homes. Your agent can notify you when homes come to market in areas of interest. When it comes time to negotiate a sales contract, your agent will be there to help you through this process.