Neighborhood Research

Once you know what price range you are looking in, the next step is to choose an area in which to buy. Whether you are looking at houses with a real estate agent or on your own, you will need to choose some neighborhoods to concentrate on.

But statistics don't tell the whole story. Drive and walk around the neighborhoods, talk to neighbors and merchants and visit the schools. To find out about future plans for the area, visit the local planning commission. Test your commute by driving or taking public transportation to and from work during rush hour.

Make a list of what is most important to you - schools, crime, proximity to work, trees, views, age of housing, etc. Assess neighborhoods with an eye toward balancing your priorities and important resale factors.