9.Staying Put

Are you the type to put down roots, or do you get restless after a few years in one place? When you're renting, it's pretty easy to pick up and move. Just wait for your lease to end, load up the U-Haul and hit the road.

Homeownership makes relocating a little bit trickier, though. There's no way to know how long it will take you to sell your home, and if you want to move soon, selling a house from another city or state can be incredibly stressful. If you're not planning to stay in one place for at least a few years, it may be a better idea to rent until you're more certain of your plans.

10.Must Haves

Don't forget: A house is probably the biggest purchase you'll ever make, and you don't want to end up in a home you're not happy with. Money issues aside, there are plenty of other things to consider.

Often, it's easy in the midst of house hunting to lose sight of what you want. Before you start, make a list of must-haves, and don't settle! Is it important to you to live within walking distance of public transportation? Would you be miserable with a tiny kitchen? If you can't afford a home that either accommodates your list or that you could renovate easily, then it's not the home for you.