Whether you've spent years saving and preparing to buy a home, or are unsure if you can afford it, the questions surrounding a house purchase can feel endless.

You can find the answers - and peace of mind - by working with Team Properties of Gillette, the industry leader in experience and service.

Here are some tips to help you become your own landlord.

1. Hire a real estate professional
2. Shop for mortgage rates and terms
   A difference of even half a percentage point can mean a considerable savings over the life of a loan. For example, the difference in the monthly payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8 percent vs. 7.5 percent is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that's $12,600.
3. Prequalify for a loan
   Also early on, you'll want to get prequalified for a mortgage loan, which determines how much you can afford. It allows you to move swiftly when you find the right home, especially when there are other interested buyers. It also indicates to the seller that you are serious and can afford to buy the property.
4. Outline what you want
   The next step is to create a realistic idea of the property you'd like to buy. What features are most important to you? Make two lists: one of the items you can't live without and one of the features you would enjoy. Refine the lists as you house hunt. It is also helpful to search online to see what is currently available on the market. Your real estate professional can then show you houses that meet your expectations.
5. Visit properties
   Now you're ready to visit houses. Ask your Team Properties of Gillette Associate to arrange showings, and be sure to keep track of the properties you've seen. Each time you venture out to see more properties, revisit your notes to immediately eliminate any that clearly do not meet your standards.
6. Know the features that help or hurt resale
   In some areas, a swimming pool actually detracts from a home's value and makes it harder to sell. In neighborhoods with two-car, attached garages, a single-car or detached garage may affect the home sale and future value. Your Team Properties of Gillette professional can point out features that hurt or help resale value.
7. Rate the houses you tour
   After touring each home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system that will help narrow the field. For example, pick the house you like best on day one and compare all other houses to it. When you find a better one, use the new favorite as the standard. Avoid trying to track more than four top choices at any given time since this can quickly become overwhelming.
8. Make an offer
   Once you've pinpointed your dream house, it's time to get serious about the financial and contractual side of the purchase. Let your Team Properties of Gillette Associate guide you through this sensitive process. Because you and the seller have different goals, rely on your Team Properties of Gillette agent's experience and expertise can bring order and calm to the process and help both parties reach a favorable outcome.
9. Arrange for a home inspection
   After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection. It's common to find problems, including leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations and foundation problems. Your real estate professional can help find a reputable inspector, and will negotiate to get you the most for your money once the inspector's report is final. Ask your real estate expert about home protection plans, which may save you money in the near future.
10. Close
    Before your closing date, make sure you've made all necessary deposits and completed the paperwork including mortgage, title, homeowners insurance and any other paperwork required by local or state governments. Your Team Properties of Gillette agent will be there to help you complete that closing checklist and avoid any last-minute snags. You deserve to enjoy every moment of the homebuying process.