CRITERIA TO CONSIDER

Perhaps the most important criteria as it cannot be changed. Think about school districts, proximity to work or public transportation, etc. Do you want to be in the hustle and bustle of the city, the calm of the country or a happy median? How long will your daily commute be?

Things to think about: how much square footage do you need? Do you have a preference in terms of room sizes (eg. bedrooms must be a minimum of 10x10)? Do you need an extra living or family room?

Would you prefer a fenced yard? Do you want a lot of mature trees or luscious green grass? Is privacy a factor (neighbours farther away, hedges, etc.)? Make sure to consider the maintenance required for different size lots. 

Storage comes in many shapes and sizes, make sure to take it into account. It is one of those things that you don't know you need until you don't have it. Do you need a shed, a workshop, or large closet space? Other spaces to consider are the utility room, pantry, linen closet, etc. 

What is needed versus what is wanted? If the property you are looking at does not have what you are looking for, can it be added?

Are you looking for a move-in ready home or a fixer upper? Are you ok with doing things such as changing windows, redoing the roof, finishing the basement? Do you want an updated kitchen and bathrooms or do you want to remodel them yourself? Perhaps you are only comfortable doing small changes such as painting, changing the light fixtures or updating the bathroom vanity? 

The property might have a full basement (finished or not), a crawl space or can be built on a cement slab. Determine what your preference is. 

Everybody has different ideas of extras. Do you want a pool? A garage? An in-law suite? Income potential? The possibilities are endless.