As a realtor I have the pleasure of dealing with quite a few first time home buyers and helping them with their first purchase. I have become increasingly concerned with some of the homes they are wanting to see. Quite often the first choice is the large square foot home with the low price. Even in today's market older homes can appear to be a bargain but are they? I know as a professional realtor there are many factors in determining what is a good buy and what really isn't. Energy costs have skyrocketed in the last few years and will only continue to do so in the future. What will your heating and cooling bills be every month in that grand old home? Even though the home is affordable and large there is more than the mortgage bill that comes due every month. That smaller newer home with the higher price tag can be the bargain you have been waiting for in the long run. Take some time and talk with your realtor about what he or she feels might be better suited to your needs. Going green, Think Green, it's becoming a way of life.