Buying an apartment, advice

Do you have any advice on buying an apartment? I am not from the US (so it's quite different), but genuine tips can be helpful. I am planning on buying a one bedroom apartment (around 500 sq ft, which is a decent size here) because that is how much I can afford. Basically a bathroom, bedroom, living room+kitchen and a balcony with a small entryway.

I would move into it in 10 months at most, so I have enough time to design it the way I like it. I am looking for helpful tips and ideas, places to look for for advice (youtube channels and websites). It would be completely unfurnished and without a kitchen. Only doors, windows, floors and tiles. So, where do I start?

I watched some videos on youtube and someone said to first buy the appliances, then design the kitchen. Any other advice?