First time home buying is one of the most exciting and stressful times of your life, especially when you’re doing it on your own. I’m currently within 24 hours of closing on my first home, and it has been a roller coaster. I’ve made a list of things to be sure you do before you sign your life away.

1. Be sure you are ready to be a homeowner.

This one is not easy to measure but making a rash decision to buy a home is not the best idea. Before looking for a home or placing an offer, be sure you are ready mentally and financially. I have never lived on my own before, but after having a variety of roommates over the years, I know who I can/cannot live with. If you know you can live on your own and afford it, do it!

2. Don’t be afraid to ask your realtor anything.

I was so lucky to find a realtor who cared about making this process as easy as possible and who communicated with me almost daily. Find a realtor like who is like this. You are going to be making a decision that could affect you for 20+ years. Be sure you do your research and never be afraid to ask questions.

3. Be sure love the house you place an offer on.

Determine what price range you can comfortably afford, an area you love, and features you need to seal the deal. I spent a few weeks looking at houses and luckily the first house I visited was the house I fell in love with. When it’s right, you’ll know.

4. Be prepared for the paperwork.

No one tells you the headache you will have while you’re trying to get approved for a loan. Prepare yourself with documents the lender may ask for. Yes, some of the documents are absolutely ridiculous, but do what you’re asked and it will be a breeze.

5. Be prepared for the long drawn out process.

Anything can happen during this process. I placed an offer on my house in July and 3 months later, I am now closing on it. Be prepared for small things to come up or something as large as needing a new well dug. If you are set on the house, you have to wait for it and negotiate with the seller. Take some Advil and wait it out.

6. Start home shopping before you close.

So many people told me to wait until I moved in to get anything for my house, but spending $50-100/week on small appliances putting furniture in layaway, and buying décor that I found on sale has been such a relief. With this being said, be sure you have a place to store all of your things prior to moving in (your car will not be enough room).