6. Be mindful of your after-purchase budget

In addition to having all of your finances in order before you buy your first home, make sure you know what to expect after you close. Consider the costs related to utilities, repairs, décor, transportation, taxes and insurance.

7. Think about what you would do if you moved

Plan for what you would do if you had to move or wanted to. If you’re thinking about buying a condo or townhouse, you should ensure you’re able to rent it out if that’s something you’ve ever thought of. Some HOAs place restrictions on renting or even restrictions on tenants.

8. Attend a home-buying workshop

As you go through the process of searching for a home and closing on a property, you may feel more comfortable with everything if you’ve attended a home-buying workshop. It’s helpful to go into the buying process knowing at least some real estate terminology and understanding your options, especially when it comes to mortgages.

9. Consider an investment property

When interest rates are down, and you want to get into the real estate market, consider that you don’t have to move into a new home yourself. You can buy a new house and rent it out. Purchasing an investment property as a first home is a move many buyers make when they want to jump into real estate but aren’t in a situation where moving is practical.

10. Be ready to move quickly

Whether you want your first home to be your dream nest or a house you rent out, you’ll have a better chance of getting it when you’re ready to move quickly. You should certainly take the time you need to consider any offer you want to make on a property but if you wait too long, you might lose out to another buyer.

Your real estate team can be the best source of advice for buying your first home. Beyond these 10 things nobody told you about, they can guide you in many other ways to successful first-time homeownership.