If you want to start a family, buying your own house is an excellent first step to take. A single family home will allow you to raise your family in peace, without worrying about the whims of landlords which might force you to suddenly relocate. However, as a first-time homeowner, there are things you'll need to know. Here are four tips that can help you buy your family's first home:

1. Consider the size of your family.

If you haven't finished having children yet, you should instead consider the size of your ideal family. As they get older, kids will need their own bedrooms, even if they share with siblings. Make sure you buy a home with enough bedrooms to fit everyone. Don't forget about the bathrooms either. Fighting over one or two bathrooms can be a pain in a larger family, so consider the amount of time it will take everyone to get ready in the morning.

2. Decide if you're fine with a fixer-upper.

Buying a beautiful, finished home has its pros and cons. On the one hand, you won't have to put any additional work into the house. On the other hand, these houses are typically more expensive. You can save money by purchasing an older home that is starting to get run down. A little bit of work and money can turn a house that has seen better days into a real gem for you and your family.

3. Make sure the home is in good condition.

Before making a purchase, you should ensure that the house you'd like to buy is in good condition, especially if it's an older home. Some structural issues may not be readily apparent, so you may want to have a professional help you appraise the house. Look for issues with the plumbing or wiring, since these things can lead to costly repairs down the line.

4. Go through a real estate agent.

Going through a real estate agent can save you a lot of hassle and money. Since real estate agents work with many buyers and sellers, they have intimate knowledge of the real estate market. They can advise you about whether or not a particular home is a good investment and help to ensure you don't pay more than necessary for any given home. Hiring a real estate agent is much easier than trying to learn everything about home buying all on your own.