1) Know your real monthly payment
Mortgage + taxes + insurance + HOA + maintenance reserves. Don’t shop by the principal & interest alone.
2) Inspection mindset
Look for big-ticket issues: structure, roof, plumbing, electrical, grading/drainage, moisture.
3) Future flexibility
Will the home still work if you change jobs, start a family, or rent it out later?
International note
Homebuying rules differ by country. This guide is a general framework—use local professionals for specifics.
