"If you want to buy a house there's probably never been a better time," encouraged Donald Trump recently on Good Morning America.

If you are single you are probably not going to be in the same situation as someone married. If you are married and have children, you are going to have different needs than a couple without children. Retirement might suggest a smaller home to be in your near future. If your career is demanding, mowing the lawn might not be your favorite way to spend Saturdays. Every situation is different.

Perhaps you prefer small town living or want more opportunities for outdoor recreation. On the other hand, some people love living in the city to take advantage of cultural and social activities. Try to plan for your favorite activities such as snow boarding or surfing. If you have school age children then finding the best school district may be important to you.

You can also think about what type of home would work best for you. A condominium would require less upkeep. They usually offers amenities such as swimming pools, recreation areas, club houses, exercise gyms, and are often gated for privacy.

For many people, a single family home is appropriate. Consider the floor plan for bedroom and bathroom arrangement along with size and style.

Of course, location is one of the primary issues that most people focus on and will probably be first on your list. You can start to identify areas or neighborhoods that you like as well as research other locations that you may not have given thought to before. With a little effort, you'll find it is easy to pinpoint a couple of neighborhoods you like and can afford.

In addition to examining your personal situation and preferences regarding buying a home, start to think about how much of a mortgage payment you can afford. Do you have a steady and reliable income? Are your prospects for continued employment at your current job and in your field highly probable?

Do you have the habit of paying your bills in a timely manner? Are you aware of lingering credit problems? If you are over indebted you may want to think about selling assets that are dragging you down financially. Have you put aside money for down payment and closing costs to purchase a home?

Carefully consider the two crucial players in your home buying process, the real estate agent and the mortgage broker.

Start to take notice of real estate agents that seem to work the neighborhoods you prefer. Full time agents with prior customers who can vouch for them can make your home buying process a comfortable experience. Visit open houses and talk with Realtors. Discuss the real estate market and ask questions. In addition you can ask friends and family if they know agents that they have used and feel comfortable with.

Searching for a mortgage lender is similar. Interview real estate agents asking where they went for their last mortgage. Again ask co-workers and family. Since you will be divulging your most personal details about finances, make sure you are comfortable with the home loan representative.

Of course when you are ready, be sure to get pre approved for a mortgage. It helps to know before hand what price range you can qualify for and what kind of mortgage payments you can expect.

To help simplify the process of getting started, begin a to-do list today. This short article will be your biggest asset. Include some of your own ideas and thought.

The process of buying a house should begin with enjoyment. So at the top of your to do list write these words. HAVE FUN!