First of all, what type of home do you prefer? Are you looking for a single family residence (a house on its own lot), a multi-family home like a duplex or triplex, or a condo/townhouse? Think about the kind of space you want in the home, both inside and out.

Consider the resale value. While you can’t predict the future, it’s always a good idea to buy with resale in mind. Houses with only two bedrooms have less appeal, and are less likely to resell for high value; buyers tend to look for houses with three or more bedrooms. Most expensive or unusual houses resell well; look for moderate homes in less expensive neighborhoods.

When viewing properties, make a chart of each home to keep the pros and cons in mind. Fill out a chart for each property as you view it. Include a checklist of your must-have features, some things that are nice to have but not essential, and things you want to avoid. This will help you evaluate the properties rationally, and weigh them against each other.

Take note of your thoughts during the viewing. If you find yourself imagining your current furniture in the property, it may be a good match. This shouldn’t outweigh the other aspects of the property, but it may be a clue.

If the house is in a neighborhood with a homeowners association, ask to view the HOA contract. Make sure there are no restrictions or requirements that clash with your needs and plans.

Hope you found this article helpful. Give me a call if you have any questions.