Buying your first home is exciting — and it can also feel overwhelming. Between financing, inspections, and a competitive local market, there's a lot to keep track of. Here are five things every Greater Boston buyer should know before making an offer.

1. Get pre-approved before you start looking. A pre-approval letter tells sellers you're a serious, qualified buyer, and it gives you a clear picture of what you can actually afford before you fall in love with a home outside your budget.

2. Understand all the costs, not just the down payment. Closing costs, inspection fees, and moving expenses add up. We walk every buyer through a full cost breakdown early on so there are no surprises at the closing table.

3. Don't skip the home inspection. It's tempting to waive an inspection in a competitive market, but a professional inspection protects you from costly surprises down the road and gives you real leverage in negotiations. 4. Work with a local agent who knows the towns you're considering. Every neighborhood in the Greater Boston area has its own quirks, from school districts to commute times, and local knowledge can make or break your search.

5. Be ready to move quickly. Well-priced homes in Stoneham and the surrounding towns often receive strong interest within the first few weeks of listing. Having your financing and paperwork in order ahead of time means you can act fast when the right home comes along.