Calling all first-time home buyers. It is a new year, it is time to get up and start moving!Take a step to home ownership. Don’t let another year pass you by without owning your own home do it while interest rates are still low and property prices have reduced significantly. Believe me there are properties on the market to meet your needs from fixer-upper cottages, move-in ready condos, multi-unit dwellings, small houses and large houses.In addition, Government has waived the stamp duty on properties purchased in the amount of $750,000 and under.The savings from stamp duties could be applied against your legal costs.Families may want to consider coming together to purchase a multi-unit dwelling. Approach the Bank as a family unit. Talk with your attorney who can provide you with legal advice.Are you handy with your hands? A fixer-upper may be just the answer for you. I suggest that when you look at this type of property you take along a team of specialists who can give you advice on plumbing and electrical. And you may want to talk with a structural surveyor.Make a fresh start! The move-in ready condo may be the ideal solution for you. All you need to bring with when you move into your new home is your clothing.Sell your old appliances and furniture and the proceeds from the sale can assist you with your closing costs.The newly built property may have been on the market for a while so you will want to make sure all the electrics, plumbing, shower, faucets etc are in working order.You may also want to consider a property that can meet future needs such as additional bedrooms, expansion to the kitchen or space to build a pool.Talk with your architect or the Department of Planning before signing off on the Sale and Purchase Agreement.I do hope your New Year’s Resolution includes purchasing a property.This week’s column is submitted by Frederica Forth-Anglies, president of Century 21 Bermuda Properties.