The very first step to homeownership is to secure a loan with a local reputable lender. Bigger is not always better and over the years I have found most transactions are less stressful if a local lender is involved in the sale. Of course, you can choose whoever you feel comfortable with local or National.
Your next step should be to identify the aspects of what you need in a home. I suggest putting it in writing and sharing it with your agent. Your list should have A. what you really need in a home. B. what you would really like but may not be needed if all of the A list boxes are checked. Criteria C, is what would be great but you can live without.
This step is very important to find a good qualified Realtor.
Agents who have experience and have not repeated the first year for the past 10 years. Knowledge of the market and willing to share sold homes in the area of a home you have found in order for you to make an educated offer on the home. If your agent tells you to offer 5-10% less you need a new agent. Do your research on agents read between the lines of reviews, referral’s from close friends. Hiring an agent because they are related to your cousin or because it is your boss’s wife is not very good criteria unless they check out through your research. Selling 20 million dollars of Real Estate does not make for a great agent, it tells you they are a great salesperson.
When you find a home act fast! If the home checks all your boxes and criteria call your agent to go see the home. After looking at the home with your agent if the home fits all your criteria and your agent has looked at the home and does not see any issues? Have the agent pull up Sold homes close to and the same kind in both style and square feet that has sold in the past 12 months. This will help you establish how much to pay for the home.