Buying a home is a major undertaking. Before taking the plunge, make sure that you’ve thought it through and are ready to proceed.

Consider your motivations for buying to help determine if you are really ready to enter the market.

Personal Considerations
Think about your personal reasons for moving. Do you need a larger home to accommodate a growing family? A shorter commute to work? Don’t forget to consider the difficult aspects as well. Are you emotionally attached to your present home – will it be painful to leave? Being mentally and emotionally prepared is the first step toward a well-conceived and well-executed move.

Do You Feel Pressure to Move Now?
Do you feel that you’ll be priced out by a rising market if you don’t buy now? Or are you afraid you’ll miss bargains in a troubled market? Review our tips for evaluating real estate markets to help you decide how to proceed.

How Long Do You Expect to Own Your New Home?
Buying or selling a home is an expensive and involved process. Closing costs alone can amount to 4-8% of the sale price – for both buyer and seller, making a home purchase financially unattractive unless you plan to own the property for several years. Remember that you’ll face another round of closing costs when you sell; so your house will have to appreciate 8-12% just for you to break even.

Assess Your Financial Condition
Do you have enough cash to fund the down payment and closing expenses? Can you comfortably afford the mortgage payments as well as taxes and insurance? Do you have any credit problems? Review our affordability guide to help you get the answers.

Homeownership as an Investment
While markets can be turbulent and values occasionally decline, owning a home remains an attractive investment over the long term. Additionally, don’t forget to consider the tax advantages of homeownership – mortgage interest is deductible and profits from the sale of a home are usually exempt from capital gains taxes.

Stop Renting!
It’s natural for renters to be nervous about buying a first home. But first-time buyers have a big advantage – they don’t have to worry about coordinating the sale of their existing home. So relax, follow the process step by step, and find the right home.

Assemble all of your information and develop a good idea of what you want before you begin shopping.

Your house hunting will be more efficient and less stressful if you take the time to organize yourself. Make sure you know what you can afford, where you want to live, and what features you want in your new home.

Where Do You Want to Live?
Think about the communities in your area and decide which ones you like and why. Consider schools, recreational facilities, and access to work and shopping. Write down the various features you like and dislike about each community; then review the list to decide which areas are right for you. It’s important to know where you want to live from the start – otherwise it’s too easy to get excited over a great house in the wrong location. Don’t forget to consider price range when narrowing down your choice of locations – you’ll want to spend your time looking where you’ll have a good chance of finding something appropriate.

Make a Features List
List the features you want in your new home, including rooms, room dimensions, lot size, architectural style, access to schools, recreation, etc. Use this wish list when viewing homes to help evaluate each property.

Determine Your Financing Options
Finding the right mortgage is almost as important as finding the right house. There are many financing options available in today’s marketplace, so it pays to take the time to find the right type of loan. Many lenders offer pre-approval programs that allow you to secure a loan before you even find your home – giving you a real advantage when negotiating with sellers.

Prequalify for Your Loan
Many lenders allow you to apply for a mortgage before you even find a home. Once prequalified, the only major requirement for your loan is a satisfactory appraisal of the property to be purchased (once you find it). Prequalifying can not only give you peace of mind while shopping; it can really give you an advantage in a tight market – where a seller may preference a buyer who has funding secured.

Be Honest
It’s important to be 100% candid with yourself about what you want and expect in your new home. Think about your everyday routine and list the items that are important to you. The time to do this is now – before you get caught up in the excitement.

Finding a good broker – one who knows and understands the local market – is the first step in your home search.

A good real estate broker is a partner in your home search, someone with whom you’ll be working closely. Spend the time to develop a strong relationship.

Advantages of Using a Broker
Your broker can give you valuable insight into the market and provide access to a large number of available homes through the Multiple Listing Service. Working every day in the local housing market, your broker is an invaluable source of advice on pricing, features, and trends.

A Good Broker Does More Than Just Show Homes
A broker can put you in touch with lenders, home inspectors, contractors, and any other professionals you need to complete your purchase. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations – chances are your realtor knows qualified professionals in all of these areas.

Choosing a Broker
A good broker is experienced, with a strong knowledge of the local market and a willingness to put in the time required to help you find the right home. If a broker doesn’t have the time, interest, or commitment to develop a thorough understanding of your needs, look for one who does.

Working with Your Broker
Once your search begins, make sure to take advantage of your broker’s knowledge and experience. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request market data to help in the search. Review our tips on working with a broker to help get the most out of this relationship.

It’s a good idea to do some fact-finding before you start looking at homes – before you get caught up in the excitement and stress of the shopping process. Hopefully you’ve gotten to know the communities you’re considering during the organizational phase. Now it’s time to narrow the search and find your new home.

Review your notes and decide where you want to conduct your home search. Use our community research checklist to help you decide on the right location. Your broker can help you review recent sales activity in the area to get some idea of what you can expect to find in your price range.

Finding a good broker – one who knows and understands the local market – is the first step in your home search.

A good real estate broker is a partner in your home search, someone with whom you’ll be working closely. Spend the time to develop a strong relationship.

Advantages of Using a Broker
Your broker can give you valuable insight into the market and provide access to a large number of available homes through the Multiple Listing Service. Working every day in the local housing market, your broker is an invaluable source of advice on pricing, features, and trends.

A Good Broker Does More Than Just Show Homes
A broker can put you in touch with lenders, home inspectors, contractors, and any other professionals you need to complete your purchase. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations – chances are your realtor knows qualified professionals in all of these areas.

Choosing a Broker
A good broker is experienced, with a strong knowledge of the local market and a willingness to put in the time required to help you find the right home. If a broker doesn’t have the time, interest, or commitment to develop a thorough understanding of your needs, look for one who does.

Working with Your Broker
Once your search begins, make sure to take advantage of your broker’s knowledge and experience. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request market data to help in the search. Review our tips on working with a broker to help get the most out of this relationship.

Use Your Broker
Your real estate broker is very familiar with the local market and has access to a number of research tools, including the Multiple Listing Service and records of recent sales. Take full advantage of this resource – count on having a research and planning session with your broker.

The actual search for a home can be the most daunting part of your buying experience. You’ve done the preparation and research – now it’s time to put it to use.

There are two primary characteristics of a successful house hunting experience – staying focused on exactly what you want and exposing yourself to the maximum number of suitable properties. Your broker can help you find suitable properties, but it’s up to you to remain calm and keep your wants and needs in mind.

Work with Your Broker
Your broker should compile a selection of properties that match your general search criteria and arrange for viewings. But you can also reap additional benefits from your relationship with a well-chosen realtor. Review our tips for working with a realtor for some suggestions.

Look Around Yourself
Your broker will find most of the available homes in the area, but you can help in the search. Check the weekly real estate ads in the local paper, and drive around any neighborhoods you find attractive looking for signs or open houses. Your broker can arrange a showing of any interesting properties.

Get the Info You Need
Make the most of your home shopping time. Remember to bring your wish list. Don’t forget to ask questions during showings – get all the information you’ll want later when you’re considering each property. Review our home evaluation checklist for a summary of what you’ll need to ask.

Check Out New Housing Projects
Don’t forget to check out new housing developments in the area. New homes offer many advantages, including warranties, customization, and modern features. You can get a good idea of the new housing projects in your area from your broker or through ads in the local newspapers.

Should You Consider Building?
Building a new house is stressful and time-consuming, but the reward can be considerable – the chance to have a home that is custom-designed to suit your family’s needs. If you’re considering this route, our guide to building a home will give you an idea of what to expect. Your broker can help you find a lot (and probably a builder as well).

Finding a Good Deal
It’s always difficult to find a suitable home at an attractive price, particularly in a strong market. But good deals do exist. Our tips for getting a good deal will help you find the right home at the right price.

Don’t Get Discouraged
Finding the right house takes time, especially in strong markets, so don’t get discouraged or tempted to accept a house that doesn’t meet your requirements. There are a number of ways to jump-start a stalled search. Try expanding your target area, and ask your broker to contact you at once with new listings.

You’ve done your homework and seen what the market has to offer – now it’s decision time.

Choosing which home to purchase is the critical phase of your search – make sure the house is right for you before deciding to buy. Consider your wish list, the location, and the price when making your final decision.

Consider the Neighborhood
You’ve already researched the community (we hope!) in general terms – now it’s time to take one last look at the neighborhood to make sure it’s the right place for your family. Consider your route to work, the local shopping – anything that affects your lifestyle and daily routine.

Check the Details
Make sure the house is right for your family and lifestyle. Will your furniture work out? Is the yard big enough? Does the layout work well for your family’s routine? Check through your wish list and notes to make sure you’re not forgetting anything.

Research Multi-Family Units
There are some specific concerns involving multi-family housing. If you’re seriously considering this type of home make sure that you do the research so you know what you’re getting. Review our multi-family housing checklist if you are planning to buy a condo or townhouse.

Don’t Buy if You’re Not Sure
Don’t buy a home out of frustration or impatience – this is a major investment and it should be treated as such. If the market is strong or your standards prove to be unreasonable you may need to revise your expectations before continuing the search.

Be Wary of Overheated Markets
Think carefully before getting into a bidding war or buying a home with a hyper-inflated price. Extreme sellers’ markets can develop when national and local economic conditions are exceptionally strong. During these periods prices can rise dramatically and buyers can be pressured into taking aggressive – and often irresponsible – actions. Be careful, however, as these strong periods are inevitably followed by severe corrections. Homeowners buying at peak periods often find themselves with substantial paper losses – a condition that can take years of normal appreciation to correct.

Remain Calm
Try not to get too excited about a property. Buyers can easily convince themselves that they’ll never find another house, but this is nonsense. If you like the home and it meets your needs, by all means make an offer. But keep your cool.

You’ve chosen a home – now it’s time to get the best deal you can.

The offer is the first step in negotiating the purchase of your new home. Try to consider all of the relevant facts when determining your offering price. Homes often sell for negotiated figures that are below the asking price – sometimes considerably below, so give serious consideration to your initial offer.

Consider Market Conditions
Home pricing and sales activity is strongly affected by the strength of the underlying market. In a weak market purchasers may be able to negotiate substantial reductions from asking prices. Conversely, it is risky to make a low offer in a strong market – another buyer may appear suddenly and pay full price.

Review the Specifics of the Property
Does the home suffer from a lack of curb appeal or other problems? If so, you may want to be more aggressive in your negotiations – chances are there will be less competition, even in a strong market. If the house needs renovations or repairs make sure you know exactly what to expect so you don’t have any unanticipated expenses after closing.

How Badly Do You Want the House?
Will you (or your family) be extremely disappointed if you lose the house? If so, consider being less aggressive in your negotiations – especially in a strong market. Conversely, if you are willing to take a chance you may be able to get a better deal.

Evaluate the Seller’s Motivation
A homeowner who is under pressure to make a sale is more likely to accept a low offer. Recognizing a motivated seller is a major step toward making an advantageous purchase. Common causes of pressure on a seller include financial difficulties, divorce, or the need to move by a certain date.

Consult with Your Broker
Your realtor is an experienced professional with deep knowledge of the local market, so make the most of this resource. Your broker can tell you how long a home has been on the market and can provide comparable sales for review. It’s even possible that your broker may know of a motivated seller.

Are You Buying a New Home?
Many builders have a general policy of not negotiating prices (particularly in major developments), so if you are buying a new house you may have to pay full price. Nevertheless, you may be able to get a deal occasionally – particularly if the market is weak or sales in the project are slow. You have little to lose by trying.

Writing the Offer
An offer can be in the form of either a letter or an actual purchase contract (the preferred format when working with a broker). Whichever format you choose, make sure that you clearly specify all of the required information and terms in the offer. If you are pre-qualified for a mortgage, offer to provide a copy of your approval letter to strengthen your hand.

Counter-Offer and Negotiation
Instead of accepting your initial offer the seller will probably respond with a counter-offer. After reviewing the counter-offer you are essentially back to the beginning of the offer process – but with a better idea of the seller’s negotiability. Consider all of the information and decide if you are willing to increase your price. This offer and counter-offer phase of the negotiation is often done verbally – through the brokers or even at a meeting of buyer and seller – with revised contracts signed after price and terms are accepted by both parties.

3 Ways to Get Your Offer Accepted
1. Get prequalified for your mortgage before you begin the search. Advise the seller that you are pre-qualified and do not require a financing contingency in the contract.

2. Be prepared to close title quickly. Have all of your preparations in order so you can move swiftly. It is important, however, that you do not neglect inspections or other activities that are essential to protecting yourself in the transaction..
3. Be willing to overlook minor repairs and problems that would be a hassle for the owner to correct. Be careful, however – never extend this to cover major problems without a complete understanding of what is involved. Make sure that you have considered the cost of correcting these items yourself.

A properly written contract sets forth the terms of the sale and protects the interests of both buyer and seller.

The contract specifies the terms of the sale and the rights and obligations of the buyer and the seller. A well-written document protects both parties, while a poorly drafted contract can cause serious problems.

Get it in Writing
Oral agreements are usually difficult or impossible to enforce, so if you’ve negotiated your purchase verbally make sure to have contracts signed as soon as possible.

Attorney Review
Always make sure that any contract you sign has an attorney review clause that allows you time (at least three business days – preferably five) to review the document and have it checked out by your lawyer if you feel it is necessary. Many states specify a mandatory review period, whether it is specified or not, but don’t take any chances – make sure it’s in writing. This gives you the chance to make sure all bases are covered before you are committed.

Choose an Attorney or Escrow Company
In some areas it is standard practice to retain an attorney to handle the closing. In others the norm is to have the title or escrow company handle the transaction. If you do hire an attorney (which is a good idea), try and find someone local who specializes in real estate closings. An experienced real estate attorney can help you move quickly to closing and sidestep any problems or oversights. If you are using an escrow company, make sure that they have a solid track record.

Cover All Contingencies
Make sure that the contract covers all contingencies of the purchase and allows sufficient time for any required activities or testing (i.e. obtaining a mortgage, home inspections, etc.). Reasonable contingencies are essential to protecting yourself in the purchase – don’t allow anyone to pressure you into skimping on due diligence.

Learn About Deeds and Title
The deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of the home. There are several types of deed that can be used for your purchase as well as a number of special provisions that may apply to your new home. Your attorney or escrow broker can answer any questions you have on title and deeds.

Know Your Deposit Obligations
The contract should specify the due dates and disposition of earnest money and deposits. Typically a small amount is posted at the signing of the contract with the balance of the deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price) due within 1-3 weeks. Don’t agree to a schedule you cannot meet – if you need extra time to line up the funds, specify this in the contract.

Using a Real Estate Attorney
In many areas it is standard practice to hire a real estate attorney to close a purchase. In others, escrow companies are typically used for this purpose.

While escrow companies are often perfectly capable, they do not represent you in the way an attorney does. An attorney is charged with protecting your interests, so you may want to consider using one even if it is not normal practice in your area.

Securing a mortgage is the first step toward closing – and moving day. Of course, if you’re pre-qualified you are a step ahead.

The mortgage application process can be confusing and intimidating, especially to first time purchasers – but today’s market offers homebuyers more options than ever before.

Have Your Records Ready
Organizing your records ahead of time will help speed things along when you’re completing mortgage applications. Our mortgage documentation checklist can help you keep track of everything you need.

Shop For a Lender
There are many types of lenders in today’s mortgage market – review their loan terms to decide which offers the best package for your needs. If you have credit problems or other difficulties, look for a lender specializing in this type of loan. Don’t forget to check out online lenders as well.

Consider Loan Types and Terms
Today’s mortgage market offers a bewildering array of financing options and loan programs – each with different rates, points, and amortization schedules. Consider the details of each so you can select the one that best suits your needs.

Choose the Right Loan
After considering the various mortgage programs available it’s time to make your selection. Don’t forget to review all aspects of the loan, not just the interest rate – the points, fees, and term can be just as important.

Watch Interest Rates
Keep an eye on interest rates during (and after) your mortgage search. Many lenders offer the option of locking in the interest rate before closing – a valuable alternative if rates are rising.

Apply for Your Loan
Carefully complete each section of the application and provide all of the documentation required by the lender along with the loan application fee. Maintain frequent communication with your loan representative – if you haven’t heard anything within 1-2 weeks call and ask about the status of your application. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

Save on Interest
It’s no secret that you’ll pay an enormous amount of interest on your mortgage over the years. But a 15 year loan can save you a bundle over the years with a moderate increase in the monthly payment. For example, the payment on a $100,000 loan at 8% would increase only $220/month.

You’re almost there – but there are still important tasks you have to complete before the closing.

There’s a lot to do in the weeks leading up to the closing so good organization is a must. Proper scheduling can reduce your stress and prevent any mistakes or delays.

Get Organized
Create a schedule of the items you need to complete before closing. Set up a file with all of your purchase and closing related documentation so you have it readily available.

Schedule Inspections
A comprehensive home inspection is a must for any responsible homebuyer. A proper inspection should help uncover any defects in the home – before you move in and get hit with unexpected repair costs. Depending upon your location and the age of the home you may need additional inspections as well – radon, termite, septic, etc. Your attorney (if you are using one) and realtor can help guide you through this process, so draw on their experience.

Schedule the Appraisal
Your lender will probably hire the appraiser, but you need to make sure it gets done on time. A satisfactory appraisal is essential to obtaining your mortgage commitment and moving toward closing.

Review Contingencies
Make sure that any contingencies specified in the contract are satisfied. If the seller is required to make repairs prior to closing, schedule a walk-through to insure that they are properly completed – and don’t hesitate to have your home inspector review the work if you are uncomfortable making the determination yourself.

Finalize Your Mortgage
Your lender should issue a mortgage commitment shortly after the property is appraised (assuming the appraised value is adequate). Contact your mortgage representative to make sure things are proceeding as expected. Don’t wait until the last minute – if there is a problem you want to find out as soon as possible.

Order a Survey
You’ll need a survey of the property. Contact the last surveyor who worked on the site and make arrangements at least 2-3 weeks before the closing date. If you are using an attorney, he or she may arrange to get the survey, so check and make sure before you order one as well.

Order Title Insurance
It is essential to make sure that the title insurance is ready for closing day. The title company will need to do a search on the property to uncover any potential problems with the transfer. Make sure to leave enough time before closing, not only for the search, but to deal with any problems that surface. If any title problems arise, don’t panic – usually these issues can be resolved fairly quickly. If you are using an attorney, he or she will probably arrange for the title work to be done.

Prepare Your Purchase Funds
You’ll need to have certified funds available to cover the purchase price and closing costs, so now is the time to cash out investments or make other arrangements to free up the cash. Your attorney can help you determine the total amount you’ll need to bring to the closing.

Purchase Homeowner’s Insurance
You’ll need a binder from your insurance company to verify that you have properly insured the home – otherwise you may not be able to close on your mortgage.

Get Ready for Moving Day
You probably want to move in right after the closing (you’ll have to if you’re selling your old home the same day), so now is the time to start preparing. You need to hire a mover (unless you plan to handle the move yourself) and start packing your possessions. It’s also time to make arrangements for utility shutoffs and installations – our utility checklist can help you organize these tasks.

Schedule the Walk-Through
The final walk-through should be conducted the day of or before the closing. The walkthrough allows you to confirm that the house is ready and that any required repairs have been completed. If you’re buying a new home the walk-through also gives you a chance to identify any items that have not been satisfactorily completed.

Don’t Get Stressed Out
There is a lot of work to do in the weeks leading up to the closing. It’s important to get yourself organized and not to become overly stressed.

If your contract was properly written you’ll have enough time to finish everything – and if you fall slightly behind, it’s likely the closing can be delayed a few days until you are ready to go.

Make a list of everything you need to get done. Don’t hesitate to ask your broker to help you get ready – he or she is not only there to help, but is also a veteran of this process. Your broker can run important errands, arrange for inspectors to have access to the house, and even help you replace a professional who isn’t working out. Don’t overlook this resource if you feel you are falling behind.

Keep a list of all items that need to be completed before the closing. Note the dates of appointments and check off items that are completed.
A little organization – and maybe a bit of help from your broker is all you need to get to the closing table without driving yourself crazy.

You’re almost there. The preparations have been completed – now it’s time to finalize the purchase.

Check with your attorney or escrow broker a day or two before the closing date to confirm that everything is on schedule. Remind the attorney or broker to complete the closing statements and other documentation in advance – this may seem obvious, but closings often become protracted affairs because the professionals are unprepared.

Bring Certified Funds
You will need to bring a certified check to cover the down payment (less funds already on deposit) and closing costs. Check with your attorney or review the documents to get an estimate of the total amount required. It’s also a good idea to bring your checkbook as well – small last minute costs (filing fees or photocopying charges) can often be paid with a personal check.

Have Your Paperwork Available
Bring all of your documentation to the closing in case you need something at the last minute. Your closing file should include the contract, inspection reports, and copies of all correspondence relating to the purchase.

Understand the Closing Documents
Review the closing statement (HUD-1) and other documents beforehand so you understand the purpose of each. Check out our guide to closing documents for a complete description of the paperwork involved.

Close Your Mortgage
You will probably execute your note and mortgage just before the closing of title. The lender should have provided a check to be released subject to the execution of the documents, the confirmation of clear title, and the satisfaction of any other conditions.

Deal With Any Problems
Closings frequently proceed without a hitch, but problems are not uncommon. Don’t panic if the closing hits a snag – most issues can be resolved by simple means, such as escrowing funds to cover a contingency or unfinished repair. Even if the closing has to be postponed, don’t overreact – chances are the matter can be resolved in a few days.

Execute the Documents
At this point the parties should execute the closing statements and the seller should sign over the deed. The deed must be filed with the local recording agency – your attorney or escrow broker should handle this but it’s a good idea to confirm that this was done. Congratulations, you’ve just bought a home!

Collect the Keys and Other Items from the Seller
In addition to the keys, the seller should bring (or leave in the house) any relevant paperwork – service records, warranties, instructions, etc. If these are not provided, request that they be forwarded as soon as possible.

When to Pull the Plug on a Closing
Nobody wants to see a home closing called off at the last minute, but it may be your best course of action in some situations.

If you are not using a real estate attorney and problems arise you can always call a halt to the closing until you can get some legal advice.
Postponing a closing is an inconvenience – but, in the end, a couple day delay isn’t a big deal.

Congratulations! It’s done – you’re a homeowner.

It’s finally moving day! Depending upon your arrangements with the seller, you will be able to move in either right after the closing or the next day.

Be Prepared for the Movers
Make sure the moving van has room to park as well as easy access to both houses. Movers expect payment upon delivery, so you’ll also need to have a certified check and/or cash available to settle the bill. Many movers accept credit cards as well, so inquire in advance if this is your chosen payment method. Tipping is customary – usually about $20 per mover – though this is obviously highly variable with the length and difficulty of the move.

Work With the Movers
Be available to answer questions about packing order and fragile items. Point out any items you intend to move yourself, and keep these things separated from those to be handled by the movers. Make sure the movers have clear directions to the new house as well as a phone number to reach someone if they get lost or have any problems. Make sure someone remains at your old home until the movers are packed and ready to leave.

Do a Final Walkthrough
Make one last inspection of your old home to insure that nothing has been forgotten and left behind. It’s OK to have a few minutes to yourself if you are feeling emotional at this point.

Arrange for Mail to be Forwarded
You’ll actually want to make these arrangements a week or two before moving day. Go to your old post office and arrange for mail to be forwarded to your new address (if you had a P.O. box you may want to retain it for a period of time). Send out change of address cards with your new location.

Get Settled into Your New Home
Target the most important areas of your new home and unpack for these rooms first. Arrange to have someone available at the house during the first few days to coordinate installations and deliveries. Have written instructions prepared for installers to make sure you get phone lines and TV jacks in the right places. If you have any improvement projects planned you can start scheduling the work if you haven’t done so already.

Change the Locks
Though many people don’t bother with this precaution it is extremely advisable to do so – you probably know very little about the seller and even less about anyone to whom they may have given a key.

Deal with Any Problems
If you discover any problems with the home after you move in, stay calm. Have the problem checked out and documented by a qualified professional, then consult with your attorney – the seller may be liable for any deficiencies that were not disclosed to the purchaser.

Finish the Paperwork
Store your purchase and closing documentation where you can easily find them at tax time (or whenever else they are required). Complete any paperwork required by local schools (if you have children who are enrolling). Don’t forget to change your driver’s license, automobile registration, and voter registration, if necessary. Lastly, confirm that the deed was correctly filed with the appropriate authorities.

Making Your New House a Home
Now that the search is over and the house is yours, it’s time to start making this new place into your home.

The sooner you get your possessions unpacked and in their new places, the sooner you will begin to feel comfortable in your new surroundings.

If you are planning to do any home improvements you may want to make out a schedule and prioritize the most important projects.

The same applies to major decorating – if you are not going to do it all at once, try to concentrate on areas that have the greatest impact on your day to day lifestyle.
Before you know it your new house will feel like home.