: Separate "must-haves" (e.g., number of bedrooms, school district) from "nice-to-haves" (e.g., pool, fenced yard).
: A lender reviews your financial documents (tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements) to give you a letter stating the loan amount you qualify for. This is critical; many realtors will not show homes without it. Save for Upfront Costs : first time home buying process
Before visiting homes, you must establish what you can afford. : Separate "must-haves" (e
: Use the 28/36 rule —your mortgage should not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income, and total debt shouldn't exceed 36%. : Separate "must-haves" (e.g.