Buying a home is one of the most important investments you will make in your life. It can seem like an overwhelming process, but going in prepared will not only allow you to find the perfect home, you will also be able to put your family in the best position moving forward. Working with a detailed checklist ensures that you consider every aspect of your purchase before making an offer.

For example, noting that the asking price does not include monthly homeowner’s association dues helps you stay within your budget. You can also keep track of details such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and notes that you have about the neighborhood, such as nearby schools and other amenities.

A checklist allows you to plan out your potential mortgage payments ahead of time so you know which properties fit all of your requirements. When you are choosing between various homes that you’ve seen, being able to reference your checklist and notes is invaluable. Learn more about creating your checklist in our infographic.