Before anything else, get clear on what you’re looking for—and what you can comfortably afford. Do you prefer a condo, townhome, or single-family home? What are your must-haves, dealbreakers, and ideal monthly payment? For your budget, look beyond what a lender says you can afford and focus on what fits your lifestyle. Be sure to factor in extra costs like utilities, property taxes, HOA fees, and maintenance. As you research neighborhoods and browse listings, pay attention to price trends and what’s available in your range. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to make a move.