Wondering if you're ready to buy a home? Before you dive into house hunting, the first step is all about the prep. Learn how to lay the right foundation for your search and what to know before you hit the open houses.

Budgeting isn't exactly thrilling, but it's an essential step in defining your house hunting playground. There are a lot of factors at play, from income to lifestyle and the everyday expenses in between. No need to stress—our handy calculator will help you estimate your ideal monthly mortgage payment. Just plug in your details to get an idea of how much home you can comfortably afford. Once you know your magic number, we can get to the good stuff!

Let's explore the main kinds of mortgage loans to determine the best fit. From conventional loans to jumbo loans, we'll take a tour of the different loan types to help you uncover the best option for you.

Get a foot in the door of your dream home by getting preapproved for a mortgage. This is a great way to expedite the loan review process—including your credit report, income, assets and down payment up to a certain amount—and close on a home faster. Don't worry, it's simpler than you might think.

It's time to find "the one!" You can team up with a real estate agent to guide you and negotiate on your behalf or go it solo. Whether you’re looking for a single-family home or a condo, there are a few things to keep in mind on your house hunting mission.

You've fallen in love and you're ready to make an offer they can't refuse—well, hopefully. In a flurry of anticipation and sweaty palms, how do you do it? We'll give you the inside scoop on closing the deal from earnest money deposits to purchase price negotiations and appraisal contingencies.

Before rushing to make things official, you need to know exactly what you're signing up for. A home inspector will look for problems that may not meet the eye, from maintenance issues to liabilities lurking beneath those freshly painted walls. With a proper inspection, an inspector can help you ensure your dream home is in tip-top shape.

Home is close to your heart and even closer to your wallet. Owning a home is a valuable investment that requires protection from potential financial troubles and environmental factors. In fact, homeowners insurance is often mandatory. Ensure your dream home is safe and sound with this guide, covering everything from Title Insurance and Private Mortgage Insurance to Wind, Fire and Flood coverage.

After the inspection, it's time to break out your best negotiation tactics. This part may seem tricky, but understanding what to expect and what to watch out for makes all the difference. Before you navigate negotiations, take time to learn about common repair requests, how to determine what a reasonable request is and smart strategies for getting a great deal.

Get your ribbon-cutting scissors ready—we're almost home! Let's delve into the most exciting step of the home buying process to ensure a smooth and successful closing. From conducting the final walk-through to understanding the closing disclosure, we have all the information you need to come home happy.