When you enjoy a fine meal, each course is special in its own right—but each course also helps you look expectantly and eagerly toward the next. By the end of the meal, you’re full and satisfied, content to know that you got your money’s worth and then some. Think of this book as a literary meal.

Consider this first part your appetizer—it gives you a taste of the many things to come in buying a home. In this part, we examine not only your goals, concerns, and boundaries, but also what you need to address at the beginning of your search. We discuss the terminology used in the home-buying process, and describe how you can find a Realtor. We also help you to create your dream home wish list. So bon appétit!