Deciding which house to buy is a big decision! It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the choices you must make during the process. Keep your sanity by using these seven tips to ensure you’re on the best path to homeownership and purchasing the right house for you.

Stick to the Budget

One of the biggest homebuying missteps is buying over your budget and then struggling to make the monthly payment. Review your budget carefully and decide on a realistic amount to pay for a home. No matter how much you’re tempted, don’t go over it. Meet with one of the reputable mortgage loan companies in your city to see how much of a mortgage you can qualify for.

Factor in Your Life Plan

Are you planning to have more children? Are you middle-aged moving toward your senior years? Where you are in life may dictate some of your must-haves, such as a big backyard, a child-friendly neighborhood, or a home without stairs. Keep these life points in mind when looking for your perfect home.

Find the Right Size

How much square footage do you need? How many bedrooms and bathrooms? Do you need a big kitchen, or will a small galley kitchen work for you? Deciding how much house to buy up front cuts down on the chances you will get frustrated from looking at too many choices. Set a size range and only visit listings that fit into your agenda.

Narrow the Location

Do you and your family prefer the city, country, or somewhere in between? Do you want to be in a particular school district, or walking distance to work? Think about your daily life activities and factor those into choosing your ideal home location.

Consider the Condition

If you or your spouse are handy and love a good DIY project, you could potentially save money buying a fixer-upper. On the other hand, if changing a light bulb is a big endeavor, you probably need to go with a move-in ready home and save yourself a lot of worry and stress.

Decide on Outdoor Space

Do you have kids or pets who would appreciate a big backyard? Do you enjoy yard work, or think it’s a drag? Would you rather spend your weekends pursuing activities other than caring for a large lawn? Look at what you enjoy doing with your free time to decide the type of outdoor space that’s right for you and your family.

Settle on Amenities

Unless you’re financially loaded, you’re probably not going to be able to get everything you want in a home. Prioritize your must-haves above your like-to-haves. Keep your main preferences in mind during your search to make the best decision.

Have some honest family conversations about wants and needs and put pen to paper on a budget. This legwork is essential in reaching the best decision and ending up with the perfect home in the right location for your family.