You and your spouse are excited about buying a home. As first-time homebuyers, it's important to ask as many questions as possible to understand your place in this industry. In fact, you should start by asking each other a few questions as you start your home search. Explore these main questions that should be considered before heading out to nearby open houses.

1. Where is the Best Area to Buy a Home?

A home's location is a critical one when it comes to work commutes and schooling concerns. Discuss neighborhoods that might work for you both. The perfect home might be close to work or positioned between two work locations. Every couple will have a different answer to this question. If you have differing opinions on the location, circle back to the subject another time. Compromise may be needed in this situation.

2. What if There are Marital Problems?

No one likes to think about possible separation or divorce, but talking about these tough subjects will help you both in the end. Discuss how a property might be settled if the marriage doesn't work out. You might have a lawyer draw up some documents to protect each person in case of marital problems.

3. What Kind of Debt do we Have?

If you're newlyweds, each person may have brought some debt into the marriage. It's critical to talk about debt now. Credit cards, student loans, and other debt can make it difficult to qualify for a mortgage. You need low debt and high income so that a lender feels confident about approving a loan. Clean up any debt issues now before applying at the bank.

4. Do we Have Enough Money for a Dream Home?

Every couple has unique dynamics when it comes to finances. One person may be a spender, whereas the other person is a saver. Sit down to talk about a down payment. Is there a savings account that's been overlooked? There may be some money put away that can qualify for a down payment. If you don't have any funds right now, promise each other to save up with a concrete plan. Eating in more often than dining out, for example, is a great place to start.

5. How Long Will We Live There?

If you or your spouse have unstable career paths right now, investing in a home may not be a good idea. Buying homes for sale in Baton Rouge means that you're relatively settled. You don't plan on leaving the city for at least several years. Careers may be in full swing, and there's no reason to leave them now. Take your professional and personal lives into consideration because purchasing real estate makes you committed to an area for the long term.

Life is full of surprises. Posing these questions to your spouse right now might give you different answers than in five or 10 years. Communicate with your spouse as times change. Buying a home together is a commitment that's just as important as your marriage.