When you consider that first-time buyers can take full advantage of the cost savings offered by today's affordable prices, it's no wonder more than 2.5 million people bought a home for the first time in 2007, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

• Location, Location, Location--The best place to start is by creating a list of the towns or specific communities where you would like to live. Take into account factors such as your commute and proximity to family, as well as the amenities and activities available in each location. If you aren't familiar with a location, consider purchasing an area map or take a "Sunday drive" to get a feel for the town.
• "Windows" Shop--NAR reported that 87 percent of first-time buyers used the Internet during their search in 2007. Start by looking online to get an idea of what types of homes and features appeal to you. Would you like a townhouse or a single family home? Do you prefer a ranch over a split-level? Do you want a home with a brick exterior or siding? Getting a sense of the variety of options available and what you are interested in will help simplify your search later on.
• Determine What You Can Afford--Once you have an idea of where you want to live and the features you like, the next course of action should be to figure out your price range. Many real estate Websites, such as Weichert.com, offer "affordability and payment calculators" to give you a general sense of what you could afford. For a thorough analysis, however, first-time buyers should sit down with a mortgage professional, such as a Gold Services Manager from Weichert Financial Services, to determine exactly how much they will be approved to borrow from a lender.
• Real Estate 101--Before going out and looking at homes, many people find it reassuring to get familiar with the overall real estate process. There are a number of great books, as well as countless online resources, that offer a good overview. First-time buyers might also consider attending a home buyer seminar to learn more. Weichert Realtors offers a free seminar designed specifically for first-time buyers each month in all of its company-owned offices.
• Finding the Right Agent--Now that you have a general understanding of real estate and what you are looking for, I can show you properties that meet your specific needs. I can also continue to educate you on the overall real estate process and provide you with valuable information on the local market.

These and other topics are covered in our monthly Buyer's Seminars held in our Vienna, Virginia, offices. If you'd like to attend, please contact me to reserve a seat at our next seminar.