If you are a first time home buyer and don't know where to start, take a deep breathe. Buying your first home can be a very rewarding experience. The following steps can have you on your way to home ownership with a few phone calls and/or emails. During my many years of real estate, these are the steps I advise for some of my favorite clients! Contact a lender for a pre-qualification. There are loan programs designed specifically for you. If you are in a rural area, I suggest working with a local lender versus an online giant. Local lenders are familiar with the area and can possibly offer better loan options. Start with your bank or contact a local real estate agent for suggestions. The lender will gather your information and tell you a price range for a home you can afford. Go Shopping! This is the fun part! Contact a real estate agent and tell them your wants and needs. Find ONE agent you like and stick with them. All agents in an MLS system can show all the prop