Mike,
You should think about coming up for a weekend now and then (since you aren't too far away) to get to know the various neighbohoods. You are looking at a wide range of locations. Once you settle on a few places, watch the listings (on line) to get an idea of prices. Then when you come up to do some serious home-shopping, you will have a better idea of what you want and be better educated about the market. There isn't much on the market in January. I would wait until late February, early March, and then be ready to make a decision if you see something you really like. March is a busy listing month, thus better inventory. If you pick something by early April, you can be in your new home 4 to 8 weeks later, depending on the seller's situation.
As someone else mentioned, you'll need a pre-apprval, and it should be from someone local.
Good luck!
Deb Nicholls
Keller Williams Realty Boston Northwest
Concored, MA - Wed Oct 21 2009, 11:01