We all know that buying your first home can be a seriously daunting task! Closing costs, earnest money, inspections, and finding that dream home you’ve always wanted can be like reading in a foreign language. But it doesn’t have to be! When searching for help buying a home, there are tons of people and sources out there that can keep the sweat off your back.

Here are some tips that might help to remember when searching for your first home:

Find the Right Real Estate Agent

Whether it’s a family friend or someone who looked nice on the flyer in your mailbox, it’s important to find a real estate agent that’s right for you. Just like houses, real estate agents are not all created equal!

Even if your best friend referred her agent to you, that doesn’t necessarily mean that agent fits your needs too. Remember when searching for an agent that it’s important to feel comfortable and honest with your agent. The right agent will not only give you the ever important help buying a home, but also celebrate with you each step of the way!

Consider New Builds and Older Homes – If You Want!

It’s likely that everyone in your life will be telling you what to look for in your first home, but what’s most important to them doesn’t have to be what’s most important to YOU. This also comes down to new builds and older homes. Though according to Zillow, 48% of buyers are searching for a home that has never been lived in, sometimes a previously loved home could be the better option.

Weighing the pros and cons of each house in correlation to your own life is the key here. Do you think that an older home could give you more space or a larger garage for a similar price? Go for it! Do you want to ensure that you’re the first person to use the bathtub and is customization key? Then maybe new builds are the way to go! It’s different for each and every buyer.

Use Your Support System

Even though what you want is truly the most important factor, it’s also nice to have help buying a home. Whether it’s a trusted friend, your parents, or your mortgage broker, sometimes you just need a second opinion. Don’t be afraid to ask – most people will be happy to give you their opinion.

You’re Not Alone!

Alright, we know this one may be obvious, but don’t forget that all of us were first time home buyers at one time! In fact, about 32% of people who are seeking to purchase new homes RIGHT NOW are first time buyers. That said, there’s no question that’s too small or too silly during the process. If something pops into your head that you’d like to run by your real estate agent, don’t hesitate. Chances are, you’re not the first person to ask!

No matter what, it’s inevitable that you’ll need help buying a home, but so long as you know what’s most important to YOU, you almost can’t go wrong.