10 Things to Take the Trauma Out of Home Buying:

10 Things to take the trauma out of home buying:

Find an agent that's simpatico: Home buying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one.  It's critical that the agent you chose is both skilled and a good fit with your personality. 

Remember, there is no "right" time to buy, any more than there is a right time to sell.  If you find a home now, don't try to second-guess the interest rates or the housing market by waiting.  Changes don't usually occur fast enough to make that much difference in price, and a good home won't stay on the market long. 

Don't ask for too many opinions.  It's natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas will make it much harder to make a decision. 

Accept that no house is ever perfect.  Focus in on the things that are most important to you and let the minor ones go. 

Don't try to be a killer negotiator.  Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to "win" by getting an extra-low price may lose you the home you love. 

Remember your home doesn't exist in a vacuum.  Don't get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself -room size, kitchen- that you forget such issues as amenities, noise level, etc., that have a big impact on what it's like to live in your new home. 

Don't wait until you've found a home and made an offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate insurance availability, and consider a schedule for moving.  Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make your bid much less attractive to sellers. 

Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post-home buying budget.  Even if you buy a new home, there will be some costs.  Don't leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.  

Accept that a little buyer's remorse is inevitable and will probably pass.  Buying a home, especially for the first time, is a big commitment, but also yields big benefits. 

Choose a home first because you love it; then think about appreciation.  A home's most important role is as a comfortable, safe place to life.