I wish I had a pound for every time this question has been asked, but fear not " It has to be done". We asked exactly the same questions on here when we wanted to buy last year. Firstly get a good agent, Cenk and Olga did everything for us and I mean everything, no need to get a solicitor involved unless you feel safer doing so and want to pay the extra. Secondly do you want to live away from everything in a quiet area or do you want to live nearer a town where everything is at hand. We chose the latter as we are "Townies"at heart. Spend time on your own exploring possible places which you would choose to buy, and if you fancy an apartment on a complex (like we did) go onto the complex and talk to other owners and ask questions, in other words be bloody nosey. Something that you need to take into consideration is, are there any shops within walking distance? Very important to us. We are near the Sunday market and love the place. Wouldn't swap it for a gold pig. Good luck and hope you find what you are looking for.