Consider what you want in a home. Would you like an eat-in kitchen? How about a room on the first floor that can become your office? Is a garage on your list of must-haves? Think about how many bedrooms you may need, and what kind of storage space you want. Of course, you may not find (or be able to afford it if you do find) the house or condominium that has everything you want this time out, but you certainly should be able to get some of your ideal features.

What is important to you? A checklist will help. The one in Worksheet 8.1 is merely a suggestion. Change it to suit you and your family. Make several photocopies of the worksheet, give a blank copy to each member of your household so that he or she can jot down responses, and fill out a

worksheet for each home you are interested in. It will remind you to notice each feature specifically, and it can serve as your notes later, after you've seen so many houses they are starting to run together in your mind!

Make a master sheet and give a copy to your real-estate agent so he has a clear idea of what you are looking for. Remember, without this information, your agent will not be able to steer you toward homes that have the things you want.

Worksheet 8.1 Ideal Home Worksheet