Put on your visionary hat and think about the space you might need in the next 7-10 years. Consider how these life events could influence your choice:

The cost of owning a home can vary greatly based on home’s region, condition, construction date and other factors. Before you buy, talk to your local real estate expert about the average maintenance costs of homes in your neighborhoods of interest.

Get firm estimates of the time, effort, and dollars involved in turning your potential home into your dream space. Also, ask your agent about home warranties that can minimize your exposure to future repair costs.

Ownership association fees can be a great investment if the benefits have value to you. For example, if you hate routine lawn maintenance, a monthly fee is a small price to pay to avoid it.

Factor in all the places you frequent including work schools, the grocery store and other amenities. Check walkability scores in Zillow and Trulia by entering the prospective property’s address and looking at nearby points of interest.