When you are buying your first home, there is a big mix of emotions -- it's exciting and intimidating all at once. There's a lot of information to sort through, research and understand to ensure you are making the best decision possible for your future.

You may have asked your friends and co-workers for some first-time home-buying advice, but there are still a few secrets that may have been left off the table.

To help you along your journey, be sure to keep these suggestions in mind, too.

1. Schools Impact Home Values

If you have kids, or if you're planning to have kids, you probably already have school districts on your radar. Many single people don't think about the impact certain school districts can have on their home values, however.

If you find a home in a good district, you should likely expect:

• Higher taxes
• A better resale opportunities
• Positive overall home value

2. Pre-Approvals and Budgets Aren't Always the Same

Many first-time homebuyers see stars as they check out one place after another. It's important to put your budget in check before you begin the buying process. Although today's market essentially necessitates buyers to be pre-approved before signing, you have to know your own personal limits.

Putting your budget in place beforehand can prevent you from:

• Wasting your time seeing places you can't afford
• Becoming "house poor" with a mortgage that takes away from your lifestyle
• Anticipating a fun DIY project, only to find out you've purchased a money pit

3. Investigate Utility Expenses

Your mortgage may be well within your budget, but what about the rest of your living expenses? Water, utilities and other creature comforts can wreak havoc on your perfectly planned monthly budget if you're not careful. 

Before you commit to a new home, factor in the costs of:

• HOA fees
• Water
• Gas
• Electric
• Cable or other entertainment tools
• Internet and cellular connections

If possible, ask your utility company for a report containing the prior residents' usage. This will help you gauge your own monthly costs.

4. Examine the Rules

If you have always dreamed of having a pink Barbie home, be advised this may not be wise if you live in a community that's governed by an HOA. Many homeowners' associations' can be pretty strict, confining home buyers to specific rules, regulations and aesthetics. 

If the home you plan to purchase is governed by an HOA, it is absolutely essential to understand the HOA's guidelines before you commit to your purchase.

Before you buy your first home, make sure you have your potential purchase thoroughly inspected. Home inspectors can find many things that could be wrong with your home, but only a certified roofing expert should examine one of the most important parts of your house.

Schedule your 14-point roof inspection with our First Quality Roofing & Insulation team today!