Buying your first home can seem like a daunting process. From mortgage rates to taxes to closing costs, there's certainly a lot to consider. And because your new home will likely be the biggest investment of your life, it's crucial that you educate yourself about the process before you get started.

1) Know what you want
When purchasing a residential property, you'll have several options to consider. These include traditional single-family homes, condos, townhouses, and more. Each type of property has its benefits and drawbacks, so before you move forward in the homebuying process, make sure you pin down which property type will best suit your needs.
2) Know where you want
Just like properties have their pros and cons, so do neighborhoods. Before you start checking out homes, decide where you want to live and focus your efforts on that area.
3) Do your research
Get online and check the selling prices of comparable properties in the area you're interested in. Sites like Trulia, Zillow, and Realtor.com can help you get an idea of what you should expect to pay.
4) Find out what you can afford
Use an online mortgage calculator to see what your monthly mortgage payments would be if you bought a home today.
5) Look at total monthly costs
Mortgage payments are only part of equation. Before you buy, you'll want to figure out what your total monthly housing cost will be, including homeowner's insurance and taxes. To get an idea of insurance costs, pick a property, then call a local insurance agent and ask for an estimate.
6) Figure out closing costs
It's important not to overlook the upfront cost of settling on your home. Closing costs include lender origination fees, taxes, title and settlement fees, as well as prepaid items like homeowner association fees and insurance.