Every home buyer needs a little help. These people can make life a lot easier and provide necessary resources to make informed decisions.
Housing Counselor: This is one person with whom you may not be familiar, but first time-homebuyers, especially stand to gain a lot from meeting with one. These people specialize in education, alternative loan programs, grants, local benefits for homebuyers, tax breaks and other resources.
Loan Officer: You need one to get your mortgage. You want one with your needs and limitations in mind. Make sure that s/he can explain all of the terms of the loan to you in clear language, so you get what you expect.
Realtor/Real Estate Agent: Although not an absolute necessity, they likely have a closer intimacy with the local market, making for a quicker find. Plus, as a buyer, the services are free; Seller pays!
Inspector: Too often overlooked, this service constitutes a few hundred spent for potentially thousands saved. To learn the secrets of the home before you buy it, don’t skip this step.
Attorney: Can’t get around it, you’ll need one of these to review your paperwork.
Start with the Housing Counselor and often they can give you resource lists or referrals to connect you with the others on this list.