The search for a home is a different experience for everyone. There are 8 things that are important to pay attention to before you get started.

1. Get pre-approved - Talk to you mortgage professional and feel free to talk to more than 1 but only allow one credit report to be pull. Being pre-approved allows you to make an offer knowing how much you can reasonable afford. Financing in now not an issue.

2. Wants and Needs List - make 2 lists of what you want and what you need. Add a rating to your list if you wish; this will help you keep in control when emotions try to conflict. Give a copy to your agent and let them know if there are any types of homes, areas, etc that are definitely not for you.

3. Research the Neighbourhood - Talk to the neighbours they are always informative. Review the zoning and any convenants. If you have time spend some in the neighbourhood in the evening or during the weekend.

4. Consider the Future - Will this house and property allow for any growth that may be required. If there are possible plans for additions will the city give permits?

5. Offer - Be prepared. Have your agent create a market analysis on the property and ask for information on the current market.

6. Details - When it's time to make an offer be sure to list all that you wish to include with the property. Include clauses to protect yourself. Remember an offer is essentially an argument on paper.

7. Eyes Open - Watch for awkwardly placed furniture or carpets that maybe hiding something. Too much air freshener can also be hiding something. Turn things on to watch for abnormalities in the wiring. Ask for the age of the roof, water heater and furnace.

8. Inspect - Have a home inspection. If you find any problems call the specialized professional to have a second look. Ask lots of questions; problems in an inspection does not have to be an automatic walk sometimes it helps to know the property so you can forward with the information. Houses are like people non are perfect and that's ok.