Regardless of how much preparation you’ve done, if you’re thinking of buying a home, it’s helpful to have a straightforward checklist for home buying at hand. Here are some basic criteria you might find useful to include in your checklist as you get started on your home-buying search:

The place you want

• Do you have a neighborhood or maybe just a type of community in mind? 
• What’s the single most important feature for you — the type of property, size, proximity to schools or work, your family’s needs? 
• How much do home features such as a pool or a view matter to you? 
• Can you see past the flaws in a property? 
• Are you looking for a home where all you need to bring is your toothbrush?

The qualities you desire

• What’s nearby? 
• How far is the home from work or school? 
• Does it have good proximity to hospitals and family doctors? 
• Are there places to learn such as museums, libraries and bookstores? 
• How far is the nearest supermarket or drugstore? 
• Is it located in a community with a tight-knit feeling, or do you treasure privacy?

The financing you need

• Are you financially prepared, and do you understand the process of home buying and financing? 
• How long are you planning on staying? 
• What are your financial goals, and how does a particular property relate to them? 
• Is there a way to start thinking about the value of a property in the same way you would view your bank balance or retirement savings?

Make a checklist of what you “must have” versus what you “would like.” For example, you must have a safe neighborhood, but you would also like an active community association. Consider the importance of:

• Good schools 
• Low crime 
• Residential zoning 
• Pride of ownership 
• Clean streets and public parks 
• Homeowners associations 
• Transportation availability

Although knowing the answer to all these questions isn’t necessary, it helps to keep them in the back of your mind, as you start looking.