<human>:  What do I need to know before buying a house?
<bot>: 
1. You should familiarize yourself with all the different types of mortgages available and figure out which type of loan works best for your financial situation.
2. It's important to look closely at the home you want to buy and make sure it's in good condition, or assess how much work needs to be done.
3. Consider the long-term costs associated with homeownership, such as property taxes, insurance, and other maintenance costs.
4. Research the local real estate market to determine a fair price for the house.
5. You also need to consider your down payment, closing costs, and other fees.