Whether it’s jumping off the high diving board or out of an airplane, these thrilling activities can create a sense of fear and anxiety. At the same time, however, they can also produce an incredible adrenaline rush that makes you want to do it over and over again.

Buying your first home or real estate investment is no different.

The process can seem daunting at first because of all the little things you need to know. But, the end result can be very rewarding both financially and personally.

Here are the three key ingredients to help allay your fear of the unknown and to ensure success in the real estate market:

• Preparation
• Investigation
• Education

Naturally, before you jump into the pool, it is a good idea to check the depth of the water so you don’t break your neck. Likewise, before you buy your first piece of property, you need to do your homework.

Surround yourself with knowledgeable people. Find an experienced local real estate agent to provide you with comparable sales in the area or do your own research with online resources such as Zillow.com.

Next, reach out to an experienced mortgage specialist who can explain all the different types of loan programs available to you. To make sure that you are not going to end up investing in a “money pit,