Buying a home involves evaluating your finances, including income, debt, credit, and savings for a down payment. Determine how much house you can afford using the 28/36% rule, and consider closing costs. Improve your financial standing if needed, explore first-time buyer programs, and understand mortgage types and terms. Get pre-approved, find a real estate agent, start house hunting, learn the local market, make an offer, get an appraisal and inspection, then close the deal to become a homeowner.