• Where do you want to live?
• Do you want to live near transportation, work, schools, or shopping?
• What kind of house do you want or need?
• Are you looking for a distinct type?
• How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want?
• Do you want a yard?
• What size of mortgage do you qualify for?

It is essential to get pre approved for a mortgage as you begin your search for the right home. Being pre-approved has many advantages. For one, you know how much you can afford. You'll know exactly what is needed for a down payment, how much the bank will finance, and you'll know just how much closing costs will be. You will also have peace of mind knowing there will be no financial obstacles in the way of you purchasing your new home. A pre-approval will also aid you in your purchase negotiations. Most offers to buy a property are sometimes subject to financing. A pre-approved buyer is a qualified buyer which the seller is often more willing to negotiate with.

• Is the foundation of your new home sound? Is it built well?
• Are the home's major systems such as electricity, plumbing, heating/air, and roofing in good condition?
• Is the home energy efficent?
• How much major aesthetic work will be required?
• What will your commute to school/work be like?

So you've found the house you like and are ready to make an offer. Now it's time to negotiate the price and in reality you are presenting a counter offer. Some things to keep in mind when considering the seller's intial offer:

• How does the offer compare to your budget?
• How does the price compare to similar homes in the area?
• How does it compare to the prices of similiar homes you've considered?
• Does the house need fixing up and what is the age of the the house?
• Do you get any personal property with the house like appliances, window treatments, furniture, hot tubs, etc...
• Be reasonable with your offer. You'll get more of a response by the seller if you are fair than if you want to "low ball" them. There is however nothing wrong with countering with a low offer on a home you feel is overpriced based on your research. Your counter offer should be of a very short duration, within 24 hours. This helps prevent the seller from shopping your offer to another buyer and using it to attain a higher price.