Your first step in the home-buying process is to define the reasons why you want to purchase a new home.  To stop paying rent? To start building equity? To have a place of your own? To raise a family? To move up to a bigger house? Determine the style of home you prefer and the Vancouver area in which you'd like to live. Be specific.

Develop a needs vs. wants list.  Everyone has a picture of their ideal home. This home would include all the features you not only need, but have long desired. However, when it comes time to buying a home, these desired features constitute additional costs. While it's nice to think about having an artfully landscaped backyard, or built-in appliances, these are usually considered luxury items, which can add considerably to the price of your property.

Develop a needs vs. wants list.  Everyone has a picture of their ideal home. This home would include all the features you not only need, but have long desired. However, when it comes time to buying a home, these desired features constitute additional costs. While it's nice to think about having an artfully landscaped backyard, or built-in appliances, these are usually considered luxury items, which can add considerably to the price of your property.