What is most important, when buying a house? Sure you have your dreams or ideas where it should be, how big, maybe a nice garden and so on, however you also should consider your budget versus your ideal home. Unless you have rich parents you will have to get a good match not a perfect one. Compromises are needed.

And without a million in cash you need to go to the bank and get a mortgage. Don’t be ashamed. If you’re doing the mortgage thing right it will be one of the right things you’ve done in your life! This is a great way to get a house, if you do it right.

Now brainstorm the criteria for the house. Go into detail and write it down. Do it together you and your family, if you have one. Next check out the area you want to buy. Take note of every house your interested in, even photos could be helpful. You could even ask your future neighbors how they like the area, how much they paid, how long they live there, etc. If you’re ready, go to a real estate broker and ask for assistance. However keep your pace and don't buy the first thing you see or you get shown - even if it is just what you want. Not every broker works in your interest only, but if he feels you have a plan he will probably support you the best he can. This way you’ll have a win-win situation.

Make a list and rate everything you see, prices should be included. The houses that are great should get an A, everything worse than C aren’t worth any more work. This list will be useful to make the right decision.

With this list you’ll either make your decision and then go to the bank or you go straight to the bank if you cannot make the decision yet.

Go to your favorite bank, best if you have one which you trust and which trusts you. Then ask for their opinion about the house or the houses and the prices. They would want to help a valuable customer. If they know their job they can give you several advises. They also know if you’re making a good deal or not, so it is best to have them as friends and let them tell you. However now you’re almost done. You’ve picked your house. If you've done everything alright they will grant you your first home mortgage. Keep an eye on the conditions, read everything careful and ask what you don’t understand. Don’t be afraid, your house is one step ahead.

Happy first house :)