Keep a cool head

Not so easy once the decision to buy a home has been made. Think about what you can realistically afford before you rush out looking at properties out of your price range.

Don't over-buy the first time

Large homes with little or no furniture tend to be empty and cold. If almost every penny of your earnings goes to support the house, your lifestyle will suffer and you could end up in debt. Leave yourself some breathing room.

Compare mortgages

Don't simply accept the first plan presented to you. Spend time comparing to get the most advantageous plan for your requirements and financial situation.

Get mortgage pre-approval

Pre-qualification and pre-approvals are a necessary part of the home buying process. Not only will it give you an exact price range for your purchase, pre-approval will add a great deal of strength to your offer.

Don't wait for the "perfect" home

Like trying to find a needle in a haystack. However long you look, a home that fulfils every single one of your needs can be elusive. List your most essential requirements and look for a home that meets the majority of them.

Check out the neighbourhood

For instance - schools, public transport, shops, pubs, restaurants, is it safe for children, local parks, how long does it take to get to work, is it a clean & tidy environment, what are the neighbours like, etc. It's a good idea to visit at different times of the day, for example school dropping off and picking up times and at weekends.

Always commission an appropriate survey

It is false economy not to have the right surveys done by professionals. Many buyers just rely on the mortgage company's own valuation and survey - but remember, they are mainly concerned with ensuring that the property provides adequate and safe security. They are not particularly interested in the finer points - the ones that you may discover when you live there.

Be ruled by your head, not your heart

Making the final decision needs to be done rationally and not led by emotion. We know this is hard but your head is less likely to lead you into trouble.