The market for single family homes is at a premium right now, and you may have heard that it’s a seller’s market. Much of buying the right home for your family depends on luck, so knowing exactly what you want out of a home is the best way to stay ahead of the competition among buyers. In other words, not knowing what you want or delaying these decisions could wind up costing you your dream home.

Don’t look for single family homes without doing your research first. Here are the three criteria you should take into consideration when buying a house.

1. The location you want. In a Realtor.com survey, a staggering 91% of home buyers said that they wanted to live within the boundaries of a particular school or school district. This is often the first thing that many buyers consider, and the better the schools, the more desirable the neighborhood. This can mean that the price of the home will go up, depending upon where you live. However, if school doesn’t play as important of a part in your search, then at least consider the amenities around you. What businesses do you want to live close to, if any at all? Does your daily commute factor into your home purchase? Are you comfortable living in a master-planned community? Location, location, location — this is the first step in any home search.

2. The amount of space you need. Buying a new home isn’t only about square footage, although that matters, too. Think about the usable space in a home and how it works — or doesn’t work — for you. Consider the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, too, based on how many people will live in the home (either right away or as your family grows). Approximately four out of every five homeowners surveyed prefer to have a home with two or more bathrooms, which is perfect for a family of four or more. If you can’t find a house that suits your needs, it may be time to consider working with a home builder to create a modern home that suits your family.

3. The amenities you desire. New homes today offer a lot more than the houses of the past, especially where resales are concerned. Older single family homes tend to have years-old fixtures, from the roof to the furnace. Newer homes, however, contain brand new items that are the latest and greatest available, especially if you’ve chosen a custom-built modern home design. Look for homes with energy efficient windows and appliances, especially, and see if the house has green certification.

Have more questions about choosing the right home for your family? Leave a comment below.