Many people read a magazine, and buy products due to advertising and marketing influences. However, buying a home is  a marathon and should never done on impulse because of the significant negative impact on your financial resources. This is an important once in a lifetime purchase.

First thing to do is to select the location you want to live in or nearby, and rent for a year because your new home is going to tie you and your family down for 5-10 years. Renting allows you to explore surrounding neighborhoods, community amenities, schools, restaurants, and night life with the chain and ball that comes with a large financial decision. Only buy when you are truly in love with the location.

There’s always value to owning a home, but home ownership requires a lot of responsibility. Buy a home for the right reasons, and not just to flip it for a quick buck unless you are already well versed real estate investing.