Are you looking to put down roots with your own piece of real estate? Maybe you've gotten married, had a baby, been promoted or got a raise- somehow your situation has changed and you know it's time to stop renting. Whatever the reason, you have decided its time to buy a home of your own. This is a big step and, whether it is your first home or you're fourth, it is always smart to be prepared, when starting the process. Here are a few things to consider, when purchasing a house that will help you avoid common pitfalls and surprises.

1. First things first, how much can you afford to pay? You have to be realistic here, especially, if you go with a variable rate loan. A low payment in one year can become too much to handle the next, if the rates go up. Understand how loans work when determining your budget and get pre-approved for one. You will know exactly how much money you have to work with, but it also locks in the rate for a short time.

2. Decide what exactly you are looking for in a house. Square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, ranch or two-story. These are just a few issues to help you narrow down your search. Search the internet for houses in your area; see what is out there and what you can get for your money. If you aren't willing to compromise on certain amenities, you may have to look at older homes instead of newer builds. The good thing is that you can usually get more for your money when buying older homes. The bad news is that the money you save may have to go back into the house for updating and fixing up. Are you prepared for the work?

3. Choose a real estate agent. Meet with him and discuss all important questions. Do you like him? Is he professional? Compatibility is very important, because you will be working so closely. You want to make sure he is going to work hard for you, no matter how much money you have to spend. Once you have chosen your agent, be clear about what you want. The last thing you want to do is spend the day looking at bi-level homes when you hate stairs.

4. Look, look and look some more. Take someone who knows you and can be supportive yet objective as you look at potential real estate. You don't have to look at 50 houses, but look at enough to feel good about your decision. Take a breather after finding the house and go back on a different day to view just that house. Houses tend to blur together when you look at so many on the same day. To help you remember the points you like, make notes about each house. That will also save time and remind you if it was a yes, no or maybe.

5. Once you have picked out your dream home, make an offer. Your agent can pull up comparison prices for sold homes in the neighborhood to let you know where the asking price falls. But, always make a lower offer than the list price. They may accept, but chances are they will make a counter-offer. If this sounds scary, your trusty real estate agent can talk to you through it and advise you on how to carry out negotiations.

6. After an agreement has been reached, your agent and your lender will help you set up a home inspection and an appraisal. If anything should come up during these, don't be afraid to ask for concessions from the seller. Anything involving the structural integrity of the building should be fixed prior to closing and your agent can help facilitate this with the sellers.

Buying a home can be intimidating, but it is also very exciting. If you follow these steps, the process will be less stressful. You should enjoy this time and look to the future instead of feeling overwhelmed and bogged down in paperwork. Set down your roots and enjoy!