PICKING THE RIGHT HOUSE
What matters most is that you find a house that your family can peacefully enjoy. The most important thing is that you like the house. Don't lose that idea in the noise from all the other issues.

MASTERING NEW TERRITORY
Maybe you will have to come to grips with having a water well or a septic system. Most of us around here live this way quite comfortably. Take the time to understand what these systems do and how to treat them. Have appropriate inspections performed so you better understand what conditions or risks you are accepting.

ENVIRONMENTAL COMFORT
Sure there are environmental checks to be done and maybe even some corrective action may be necessary. Luckily, these things are manageable.

SERIOUS DEFICIENCIES
Make sure you have a qualified Home Inspector look for deficiencies that seriously compromise habitability. If such deficiencies are a surprise, then you can probably work out a fair arrangement with the seller. Get help on this from your real estate professional and your lawyer.