Define Needs for Your New Home

The big challenge on this one is to define the NEEDS vs the WANTS. I don't need hardwoods or built-in bookcases or a third bedroom. My problem is that I want all these things.

Since I've jumped ahead a few steps I can tell you that making a list of "wants" rather than "needs" actually isn't a problem. It's really very fun! Until you start the house hunt and the realization hit you that not only can you not afford the hardwoods, built-in's and a third bedroom, you can't afford ANY of them. Unless you enjoy a three-hour commute. But that's for the 'Neighborhood' post...