Buying your first home can be a difficult time, especially in these days of high house prices, and low job security. But don't despair, www.mortgagedown.com have prepared a few top tips to make the process as painless as possible for you!

* Get an agreement in principle from your favorite mortgage company BEFORE you start house hunting. This helps you establish your price range and makes you a better 'bet' as a buyer in the eyes of any sellers you meet.

* Don't just rely on 'realtors' or 'estate agents'. Nowadays, the best place to start a property search is the web. You can also check local papers and even drive around your preferred area looking for private sales boards.

* Make a checklist of teh essentials you MUST have in your new home. If you need a garage, saya so. If outside space is essential, don't go see and house without it.

* Never go alone - take someone with you even if just a friend. Alone, you might miss something.

* Never offer after just one viewing. Two visits minimum is essential, and they should be at different times of the day. Some areas that seem safe during the day turn dodgy at night!

* Ignore the decoration. Mauve wallpaper can always be taken down! The important thing is space, and the layout of the rooms. Try to see this, not the color scheme used by the current occupier.

* ALWAYS get a survey. You won't be economising if you don't. In fact, it could be the most expensive 'money saving' you ever make! A good surveyor will spot the things you can't, like damp, sloppy roofwork etc.

* Ultimately, the old www.mortgagedown.com cliche about 'the place feels right' is true. If you walk in and you don't get that 'wow' feeling, you probably won't enjoy living there.

Remember, as prices are now falling in most parts of the world, it's a buyer's market and you can take your time. You can also put in lowball offers at times like these, and you might be surprised how little negotiation upwards is needed to secure a sale! Good luck with it, and happy house hunting!