Need to find a new house

I need to find a new house. What are some of the common things that I should watch out for?

When my wife & I were shopping for a new rental, we had a short list of things we used to figure out what we wanted. Now, we're in the market again, and I'd rather rent than buy in the current market.

Here's our short list:
What size space do you need, how many bedrooms / bathrooms are a must?
What type of floor plan, is that a deal breaker or no?
Type of flooring
Age of the house
Overall square footage
Lot size

Etc, good luck.

I would also like to add from what thrdude said, look into hiring an home inspector to walk through the house as well.
I know you have to pay for the inspection but its truly worth it. The house we were going to purchased I fell in love with and was going to wave the inspector. However I had it inspected everything he found the furnace is going to be condemed, their was black mole on the walls in the basement and when he went up in the attack there was mounds of hay between the floors.
So when you find something I strongly advise to have it inspected it will save you BIG bucks!

Thanks for rub plant answer, to answer your question : Location is very important because of theft, schools, neighbors, so go with area not inner city. Get the skinny from gas company on bill at that address average monthly. Make sure landlord won't be selling ask directly. Ask in beginning to take off deduction for any painting carpet bathroom fixtures you'll need to replace. Be very cheerful cause theyll need to like you. The years I rented the worst thing was a bad neighborhood so much crap comes with a place where people don't cosmetically care.

The payments you are about to make and know if you are going to make it on time and have the payment(s). The location,neighborhood,distance to places to go shopping & etc.,how far is it from your current/new occupation. Is it safe for your family and etc.