Wow, I never thought of it in that way. But who does? Many times, we take our home for granted. Let’s look at it in a different way. When I come home at night it is always there waiting for me. Yep, just the way I left it that morning. I just wish the good fairy would come in and clean or at least pick things up and do the dishes. I once read if you make your bed in the morning, when you come home, at least you have accomplished one thing that day.

Owning a home is a big thing. “You must take care of it.” As time goes on you must make sure the roof does not leak, and the plumbing, electrical, windows, and other maintenance issues are done. One of my inspectors told a young couple “Keep up with the maintenance issues and you will own the home, if not the home will own you.” How true this is.

We all know that buying a home isn’t the same as shopping for a jacket and paying for it by whipping out your debit card. But does it have to be so hard? Actually, no, it doesn’t. Not that it’s super easy to find and buy a home, but you’ll skip a lot of headaches (or a huge financial mistake!) if you know how to get the right advice along the way. The journey isn’t always easy. But when you get the keys to your new home—that, my friend, can be one of the most rewarding feelings pretty much ever.

The key to getting there? Knowing the home-buying journey. Knowing what tools are at your disposal. And most importantly? Creating relationships with experts who can help you get the job done.

If you are in the market to buy a home. # 1 before anything else GET PREAPPROVED. This way you will know where your payment will be and the amount you can afford without being married to your home. Plus, you will need this when writing an offer. And # 2, if you are getting ready to sell your home, declutter, and fix things that are broken or outdated.

Until next month, enjoy your home no matter if you own your home or renting, make memories.