Before you go searching for homes for sale, it's best to get pre-approved with a lender so you know exactly the price range you are looking for. This should thin out your options quickly and also help avoid the temptation of buying a house that you can't afford. Make a prioritized list of features you want in your ideal home (three car garage, large kitchen, short commute, etc.) and peruse it while browsing homes for sale. It is easy to forget about what is important to you when being pitched by a realtor or charmed by a quirky feature. Research the neighborhood. When searching for new homes for sale there is often a wealth of information on established neighborhoods, both from former and current residents as well as the local government.

Look into liabilities (i.e. dangerous intersections, crime rates, flooding); as well as assets (i.e. strong community programs, good city maintenance) that may not be apparent at first glance. Ask around or check out county Web sites or community forums to get a better idea of the neighborhood. Deciding on your new home can be an arduous task and it is easy to get burnt out.