When you're shopping around for a new home, it can be an emotional process.  Here’s a quick list of the DO’s & DON’TS to help you be prepared and enjoy the journey!

DO a drive-by. Check out the exterior, the street and the neighbourhood. If you can, stop by during the day and in the evening to get a sense of what it's like at different times. You can check the walkability scores of different neighbourhoods here .

DO come prepared. If you’ll be viewing multiple properties it’s often helpful to make notes about all the things you love, items that require repair or renovation, elements you're not so keen on. When you're looking at multiple homes, it's easy to get confused – having detailed notes of each visit will help you keep track.

DO look at homes in your price range. Viewing homes in your price range keeps your budget on track and allows you focus on what your budget will buy.  

DO take stock of storage. There's nothing like moving into a new place and realizing there's nowhere to store your stuff. Look at closets, basement storage, attic space and outdoor sheds. Where will you keep your vacuum cleaner? Your spare linens and towels? Sports equipment and off-season clothes?

DON'T sweat the small stuff.  Most homes will need some changes to make your own.  Minor improvements like paint, light fixtures or an old appliance can be fairly easily replaced and budgeted for.  Watch out, plan or negotiate for high-cost fixes instead, like new roofing, window replacement, foundation or structural issues, or full kitchen or bathrooms renovations that require a complete overhaul.  

DON'T forget to check the exterior. Look for damp or buckled spots on the siding, peeling paint, loose shingles, cracks in the foundation. A quick look can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.  A home inspection will help identify these items more thoroughly as well.

DON'T overestimate your DIY capabilities. Fixing that leaky faucet? Sure, almost anyone can do that. But renovating the kitchen? Ripping out drywall? Putting in new plumbing? Before you make an offer on a house that's not move-in ready, make sure you're not getting too enthusiastic about what you can actually accomplish. If you think you can do it yourself, then realize you need outside help, you'll be facing some serious costs you didn't factor into the purchase price.

Finding a property you love is exciting, but it's a little like falling in love with a person. That initial glow can make you overlook faults that will drive you around the bend a few years down the road. Keeping emotions in check and the long-term future in mind can help you make a smart buying decision – and finding  the home that's perfect for you.