Kiplinger writer shares her home buying tale, and offers tips.

Cameron Huddleston’s first time home buyer experience may be similar to some of you who’ve recently walked the seemingly winding path to home ownership. The big difference here is she gets to share her experience, and very timely home buying tips, with the entire world as a writer for Kiplinger.com.

The home buying process while generally an enjoyable experience overall, may have some hurdles along the way. With her husband in tow (or maybe it was the other way around), they both learn  important actions to take regarding searching for a home online, home inspections, and the closing process to name a few. The move had been initiated by Cameron’s husband needing to relocate for a new job. Unfortunately, in some respects, they had to learn a couple lessons the hard way.

For instance, during what I’d call a worrisome game of ‘Whose house is this?’, Cameron recounts arriving at “their” new home to find the original owners still occupying the space – and not packed.

Whoa…

So with all of that behind her and just a little but wiser, Cameron offers her own 7 crucial tips for first-time buyers:

1. Lay the groundwork.
2. Take your time.
3. Realize you won’t find the perfect home.
4. Accompany the inspector.
5. Pay attention to the little things.
6. Be ready to negotiate.
7. Don’t spend all your money on the down payment.

P.S. Number 7 is my number 1.