A part of life's milestones that people look forward to is the purchase of a new home or property, and you can actually start on your own by looking at online resources. Websites contain various information on home search and home buying that allows you to decide in a short time what amenities or features you'd like to have.

Defining exactly what you want is another advantage that can be provided by online real estate listings. Most of the time, people are bothered by the fact that they are not sure what home styles or designs they want, but it may help you in determining what you need when you browse the Internet for online catalogues. First time homebuyers may begin their search by using accredited online listing services like Realtor.com, according to the authors of 'Questions Every First-Time Home Buyer Should Ask'. Narrowing down your search is easier since these websites have complete listings of neighborhoods and homes with pictures, video presentations, and many other visual aids.

In essence, you can have all the info you need and print them out for future reference. Another great resource are search engines and websites like the ones managed by several leading national chains namely Coldwell Banker, Re/Max and Century 21. You can also contact realtors whenever the need arises with individual offices regularly updating their databases of listings and contact information.

If you want to search for MLS listings containing street views of homes in specific cities, you may visit Realestate.com. The good thing about this is that you can actually have a more intensive search results by city, state, zip code, or MLS number. You may also go to a section called 'Local Community Information' and discover additional data on home sales prices, crime incidence (if any), commuting, and even the weather in your chosen location.

Aside from the ease in search that these websites offer, you can be updated with the latest online listings and can even compare home values. All the information you can get in your search are great tools as you prepare approaching a real estate agent. Minnesota real estate listings are likewise found in your local library. These libraries more often than not, have online equivalent of its resources that you can take advantage of. But it it does not have one, you can allot some time in searching at their in-house database. If there is one limitation that these local libraries have, it's that their listings may not be regularly updated.

The Internet has made it easier than ever to start your new home search without the help of a realtor, but you will still need to contact a MN real estate professional to visit the property. Online searches help you drill down local listings and define exactly what it is you want, which is one of the biggest challenges for the first-time home buyer. Take advantage of regularly-updated real estate listings using these resources to jumpstart your search and find the best home that suits your budget, tastes and lifestyle.

Buying a brand new home as a first time home buyer is an attractive proposition for most; you get to move into a completely new living space with brand new amenities and don't have to worry about maintenance and renovations for at least the first year.

Nevertheless, brand new properties are more expensive than existing ones and you're not always sure what awaits you in the new neighborhood you will be living in.

Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each scenario can help you make the best decision about your new home purchase; consider the following important points as you get started on the home buying process:

1. How much extra are you willing to pay for a new home? A brand new home is priced at a premium because of the 'newness' factor; you'll be the first person to use the bathroom and kitchen appliances, will be walking into freshly carpeted rooms, and making the most of the freshly painted walls.

2. Does resale value matter to you? A brand new home typically appreciates faster than existing homes, explains author Ilyce Glink of the book '100 Questions Every First-Time Home Buyer Should Ask'. If you are planning on selling your home in the very near future, a brand new home may have a higher market value shortly after you move in, making it easier to sell the home for a profit.

3. Can you easily adapt to a new neighborhood? Many new home constructions move at a very fast rate and as one of the first homeowners in the area - knowing what the neighborhood is like wont happen unless you get to meet more people in your new environment. If you have family consisting of smaller children or elderly living with you, it can be great to factor in safety and security by finding out your options as far as making your property safe.

4. Do you want to invest time and money to renovate a home? Existing homes can appreciate tremendously in value if you have the time and resources to invest in renovations and maintenance. If you're looking for a long-term investment that can generate a high profit in a short period of time, buying a 'fixer upper' may be your best home buying strategy.

5. Which do you prefer, a primary residence or an investment? Many younger MN first time home buyers are looking for investment properties that they can fix up and sell quickly to turn a profit. Mature home buyers are more likely to be in the market for a primary residence since they want to settle down and establish themselves in the neighborhood. Identify your goals beforehand and decide what you think will give you more benefits.

Deciding whether to buy a new or existing home will largely depend on your short and long-term goals, and the amount of money you are willing or able to spend right away. Consider all of the above questions when you're deciding between the two options so you can make the best investment with your resources.