Here are some tips to help you with the process of buying your new home.

1. Prequalify for a loan
   Being prequalified for a loan determines how much house you can afford. It also allows you to move more swiftly when you find the right house, especially when you aren't the only interested buyer.
2. Shop for mortgage rates and terms
   A change of even half a percentage point can make a huge difference in how much you pay over the life of a loan. For example, the difference in the monthly payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8 percent vs. 7.5 percent is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that's $12,600.
3. Features that help or hurt resale value
   In some areas, a swimming pool actually detracts from a home's value and makes the home harder to sell. In neighborhoods with two-car, attached garages, a single-car or detached garage may impact the home sale and future value. Your Realtor can point out features that hurt, as well as those that help, resale value.
4. Rate the houses you tour
   After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system which will help you narrow the field down to the house that's the best for you.