<human>: What are the top 5 things to know when preparing to buy a house?
<bot>: 
1. Research your local market and get an idea of what homes in your area typically sell for.
2. Determine how much you can afford, taking into account all costs associated with buying a home such as closing costs, property taxes, and insurance premiums.
3. Make sure to look at different types of properties such as condos, townhouses, and single-family homes.
4. Consider the condition of the property before making an offer.
5. Have a real estate attorney review any contracts or paperwork related to the sale.