(1) GET PRE-APPROVED FOR A LOAN through a reliable local (preferably) lender, as you can walk in the door if any questions or problems arise.  The lender will will tell you how much home you can buy, then you can decide on what your monthly payment you are comfortable with.  (2)  COMMUNICATE THROUGH YOUR AGENT.  This just keeps  the lines of communication consistent and everyone on the “same page”.  (3)  PUT THE DEAL INTO WRITING.  Put any component of the deal and any verbal language into writing, such as the seller will leave the living room OR you can ask for the living room rug to be left at closing.  MORE TO COME ……………….