According to recent surveys 8 out of 10 Americans considers owning a home to be a priority. For most it's an undeniable financial benefit along with all of the non-financial ones that are at the heart of the matter - home, family, sense of self, and happiness. But not everyone is ready to buy a home in Idaho - at least maybe not right NOW. So, what do you do?

Fortunately, there are a number of things you can start doing NOW even if you're not even close to being ready to move or buy a home. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Improve Your Credit
Your credit score is the first thing lenders will look at when considering your loan. The higher (better) your credit score the more money you will be able to borrow and at a better rate. If a low credit score might keep you from buying a home you can always work with a financial advisor, but some other things you can do on your own include paying bills on time as well as keeping a balanced debt to income ratio.

Start Saving
Whether it's closing costs, moving costs, or the cost of the house itself one thing you simply can not have enough of is available funds! Be it pennies or dimes, start socking it away any way you can. Consider a dedicated savings account just for your home dream so that the money you put aside can gain interest as you work towards your goals.

Start De-cluttering
The less stuff you have the less stuff you have to move! Unless you're already living a minimalist lifestyle or upgrading to an immensely larger home it never hurts to take a look at all the things you have and trim out the things you don't really need - or at least don't want to have to move with you!

Find an Agent
It never hurts to find a Idaho real estate professional who knows the market for the area you want to live in! Even if it's a long time before you're ready to buy! Find a local agent who meets your style, your personality, and who is qualified to help you towards your dream.