Purchasing a home is big investment, there is no doubt about it! But it is an investment that can earn money for you in the long run, give tax breaks at the end of the year and give you a type of freedom in your home that you just don't get when your renting!

If you've ever thought of purchasing a home, now is the time to do it.Mortgage prices are down, interest rates are the lowest they have been in decades and first time buyers are receiving incentives that would blow you away!

Take the first steps necessary to purchase your new home by receiving a copy of your credit report. You're entitled to a free credit report once a year, according to the Fair Credit Reporting Act,take advantage of it. If your credit report seems a little tainted, start repairing it before you apply for a mortgage, this will save you both time and paperwork in the end.

Once you have your credit report in order, you are ready to start seeking out a lender. Do some legwork and find a lender that you can trust and are comfortable with ask to be pre-qualified. This will give you all the information that you need to find out how much house that you can afford.

No matter were you choose to purchase your home, taking advantage of the prices of todays real estate market and becoming a homeowner in 2009 is a giant step for an early retirement!