Location is the most important factor in selecting a house. Be sure that this is the house you want to buy. Check to location carefully and thoroughly.

Consider destinations
How easy is it to reach those places where family members will go from our new home? How close are the schools, churches, shopping malls, grocery stores, medical care, public transportation, and neighborhood services?

Be sure rooms have a view
What is the view from the house and yard? Is the yard right for your anticipated activities? What uses are possible for nearby undeveloped land? Is road work or construction planned for the near future?

Check around the clock
Will special events like local high school games or church picnics impact us significantly? Will rush hour traffic be a problem?

Crash test the driveway
Is getting into and out of the driveway easy?

Be conscious of service
Do you want an all-electric house, or do you want gas or oil heat? What utilities serve this property? Are the rates competitive? Where will you get your mail?

Dig below the surface
Is the soil stable? Is part of the property on a flood plain; and if so, what is the flood history on the property?

Visit the neighbors
Do people seem to be friendly? How will you fit in with the neighbors? Are houses well-maintained?

Read the fine print
Does the community have special by-laws or architectural controls over changes to a house, what are the pros and cons?

Make a list of all aspects of each property, positive and negative. As you tour, assign priorities to important elements of the house’s location.