1 Find a real estate professional who´s simpatico. Homebuying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one. It´s critical that the practitioner you choose is both skilled and a good fit with your personality.

2 Remember, there´s no "right" time to buy, any more than there´s a right time to sell. If you find a home now, don´t try to second-guess the interest rates or the housing market by waiting. Changes don´t usually occur fast enough to make that much difference in price, and a good home won´t stay on the market long.

3 Don´t ask for too many opinions. It´s natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas will make it much harder to make a decision.

4 Accept that no house is ever perfect. Focus in on the things that are most important to you and let the minor ones go.

5 Don´t try to be a killer negotiator. Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to "win" by getting an extra-low price may lose you the home you love.

6 Remember your home doesn´t exist in a vacuum. Don´t get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself-room size, kitchen-that you forget such issues as amenities, noise level, etc., that have a big impact on what it´s like to live in your new home.

7 Don´t wait until you´ve found a home and made an offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate insurance availability, and consider a schedule for moving. Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make your bid much less attractive to sellers.

8 Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post-homebuying budget. Even if you buy a new home, there will be some costs. Don´t leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.

9 Accept that a little buyer´s remorse is inevitable and will probably pass. Buying a home, especially for the first time, is a big commitment, but it also yields big benefits.

10 Choose a home first because you love it; then think about appreciation. While U.S. homes have appreciated an average of 5.4 percent annually from 1998 to 2002, a home´s most important role is as a comfortable, safe place to live.