Whether it’s your first or your fourth time buying a home, the key to having an experience that’s delightful, not daunting, takes one thing—confidence. Here are 6 tips to keep you feeling poised and prepared as you navigate the home buying process.

1) Know what type of mortgage is best for you.

If you plan on selling within 3-7 years, an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) is a good option. However, if you plan on staying long-term get a fixed rate mortgage and opt in to additional points (a portion of the interest that you pay at closing) in exchange for a lower interest rate.

2) Go a step further than prequalification—get preapproved.

Preapproval will give you an idea of your price range and an opportunity to lock in an interest rate. Most importantly, when the time comes to make an offer, you look serious to sellers. However, what you’re approved for is rarely the price to buy at, that’s why you have to…

3) Know what you can afford.

When coming up with your price range, get estimates of what you can expect to pay for homeowners insurance, taxes, utilities and closing costs. Make sure to factor in your desired standard of living and be realistic about the percentage of income you can you can commit to monthly payments. Fannie Mae recommends buyers spend no more than 28% of their income on housing costs. Once you come up with your ideal price range its time for the fun part—the search.

4) Create a checklist of your needs and wants.

Fine-tune this checklist to give special priority to things that will maintain value over time like school districts, commute time, and the neighborhood. Underneath dead grass and dirty carpet a home could have exactly what you’re looking for.

5) Negotiate.

Be aware that with many incentives for first time homebuyers you may have to compete for the home you want. A good offer takes into account how long the home has been on the market and comparable homes for sale in the area. Aim to make your first offer a bit lower than what you think is a realistic price. Negotiations on price are a good time to solidify contingencies on financing and inspection—our last tip.

6) Know what you are buying.

Always get your potential home inspected in a time frame that allows you to back out or renegotiate if there is a major problem. Some home buyers may even want to arrange for a walk through after the owners have moved out that allows them to negotiate payment for repairs that may have been hidden or occurred during the seller’s move.

These tips are key to feeling confident in your investment and making your home buying experience painless and profitable.