• If you have children, you will most likely want a neighborhood that is family-oriented, so that your children will have other children around to play with.
• Families will also want to look into the quality of the local school districts. While all the school districts are good, if your child has special needs, it is very important to evaluate the schools to determine which one best fits your requirements.
  

  We will provide you with the various test score results for the various school districts.

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• If you like sports, you may want a neighborhood that features jogging paths, parks, tennis courts, etc.
• Determine the proximity to work or school and decide whether this is an important issue for you. Check out the proximity to shopping and recreation centers.
• Drive or walk around the neighborhood you are considering. Notice the condition of the houses in the area. Homes in good condition indicate a pride in ownership that has a positive impact on property values.
• Visit the neighborhood at different times of the day and pay attention to the amount of traffic and noise.
• Find out about crimes in the area. The local police department can provide you with statistics on how many and what types of crimes have been committed in each area.
• Do you need a location where you can keep horses or other animals?
• Do you want city or country living?

Evaluate the Home

Decide ahead of time what features you want to have in a home. Some features you will absolutely need, and others may be an option. Here are some things to think about:

• Do you want a new home or a resale?
• How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?
  
• What style of home -- Contemporary, Traditional, Southwest?
  
• What type of floor plan - Two Story, Ranch, Tri-level?
  
• Do you need a basement - finished or unfinished?
• Do you want a large or small lot?
• Do you want acreage for animals?
• Do you want to live in the city or the country?
• Do you want views of the peak or front range?
  

Make a list of the amenities you would like to have in your home. Here are a few to think about:

• Eat-in kitchen
• Greatroom or Familyroom
• Formal living and dining area
• Master suite with 5 piece bath
• Number of bedrooms on the same level
• Where do you want the laundry room
• Number of fireplaces
• Air conditioning
  

As you view the different homes, write down the pros and cons of each one. Evaluate how each one measures up to the criteria you have established. Your efforts will go a long way toward assuring that the home you buy is the right choice for you!