Firstly we focused on the suburb so we were looking in an area that was
a) close to the CBD where we both worked
b) on the right side of the city for our families to get to as both are regional
c) close to friends
d) well serviced by infrastructure and lifestyle amenities

We bought our house because mainly when we walked into it, it felt like home. However it had the advantages of being
a) close to a train station
b) close to a park
c) a 3 br house
d) close to childcare

We love our house and think we got a bargain since it has increased in value by about $300K since we bought it so that's also a consideration - finding something that is under-valued when you buy it.