Establish Your Criteria

Before you start looking for a new place to live, know your budget, and then decide on what you really need. Then, list the features that would you would like to have in that house. Once you have a clear idea of what you can afford, what you need, and what you would like in a house, the house hunting process will be more focused.

Be realistic. Looking for a home takes time, so focus on what's important to you. After looking at lots of homes, the line between "I need a garage" and "I want a garage" can get very blurry.

Many people focus more on what they'd like to have instead of focusing on what they actually need; and ultimately, that can mean they pass up a home that meets their needs in hopes of finding one that meets their wants. Remember, the biggest need is that the home you buy fits your budget. Many wants come with a price tag and bells and whistles that can increase the cost of a home.

Ultimately, you should be able to find a home that is a blend of your needs and wants. But remember, the most important thing is to find the right house that fits into your budget. This may mean that it doesn't have all your "wants" but does have most of your "needs."

To help keep your priorities in order, make a wish list and a must-have list, and take them with you whenever you look at a house. Share them with your real estate agent as well; he or she can search for homes based on your list.