Understanding the local housing market trends, working with a knowledgeable real estate agent, and assessing your financial readiness, including credit score, DTI, and saving for a down payment, are fundamental first steps in the home-buying process.Making an offer involves several critical steps, including crafting a competitive offer considering market conditions, including contingencies for buyer protection, making earnest money deposits, and timely home inspections and appraisals to ensure the property’s value and condition. This article will help you understand the beginnings of home-ownership.