Whether you are getting ready to buy your first home or just want to brush up on your home-buying skills, this publication can help. It will take you through the important steps involved in buying a residence, from determining your ability to make payments on a mortgage to evaluating the floor plan and how your furniture will fit. But before you decide buying a home is the right thing for you to do, you should carefully consider your needs. Do you need more space or different kinds of space? Is your household likely to become larger or smaller or stay the same size? Will you need space for an elderly parent or inlaw? Will you need an area-for a home office or for a hobby-with special requirements? You may have to make compromises in trying to find a home to meet all your needs exactly. This bulletin was primarily designed to be used for informal adult education classes presented by local offices of the nationwide Cooperative Extension System. However, it is also written for individuals who are planning to buy a home, but who may not be involved in a formal or informal class. Finally, professionals and other individuals who routinely offer advice to prospective home buyers may find that this publication helps them present their advice within the broad context of the home-buying process.