If you listen to people in real estate, there is a time to buy and a time to sell. You buy when interest rates are low, sell when your home value is at its highest to get a good ROI. When is the best time for YOU to buy? This may not be determined by the market at all.

If you are not sure buying a home is for you consider the following:

1. Is buying cheaper than renting in your area? Include all costs like insurance, PMI. etc.
2. Are you okay with living in one place for more than 5 years?
3. Is your job secure?
4. Do you have enough money to put a down payment?
5. How is your credit score, debit to credit ratio? The higher your score the better the chance you will not only get the loan, but get a super low rate.

You think the above looks okay, your credit score is good and you are ready to move ahead. If not, here are some tips to get you to that point:

1. No savings? Open an account have have a portion of your income deposited into your savings account automatically.
2. Low credit score? Get a secure CD loan. You use your own money to secure the loan and only pay the interest. Pay paying the loan off in the amount of time listed, you will quickly raise your credit score.

Once you have most of the above done, meet with a personal banker. They will help you assess your current situation as well as tell you what loans they have available,. If you are first time home buyer or low income, there are grants available to help you make your first purchase.