Buying your first home is very exciting. You have a down payment set aside and now you are ready. Find a good realtor to help and guide you through the process. Be realistic in finding your dream home; buy what you can afford or less. Instead of looking for the glam that you see on all the television shows, look to buy a solid home with a new roof, new HVAC, new insulation, plumbing, and new water heater. You can add the paint and glam later. When considering a property, check out the neighborhood during the day, evening, different weather conditions; make sure the property is not out pricing the neighborhood, etc. If you do not get the home you desire, be patient, the market is always changing and there might be something new that will be a better fit. Good Luck in your endeavor.