Buying a new home is a major moment in life. How do you make sure the house you choose is the one you’ll love — and KEEP loving?

Below, Chris Webb shares three insider tips he suggests for all home buyers:

1. Buy the house that fits your lifestyle, not just your budget. Say you find a house with a great price. Now, walk through it and imagine a week in it. If you like to entertain, is there cabinet space for your platters and an oven big enough for multiple items? Do you hate sharing a bathroom with someone? Then, look for at least an extra half bath for when guests are in town. Looking beyond just the price and seeing yourself LIVING in the house is the key to selecting the right HOME.
2. Bigger doesn’t mean better. There’s an old adage in the real estate business (and a reason it’s stayed relevant) — don’t buy the biggest or most expensive home in the neighborhood. If you buy the biggest/most expensive house, you’re limiting your potential appreciation, as your neighbors can weigh you down. If you’re paying the most in the neighborhood, you’ll also limit the audience of buyers when you’re ready to sell.
3. Give your house a good look under the hood. Just like a car, you want to know what’s really going on before you buy it. That’s where a good home inspector is critical. That $200 could save you thousands in the long run, and they’re an unbiased third-party to give you real insights on the health of your home.