You've spent the majority of your life working and now it's finally time to kick back, relax and live in your dream home in your dream location. While the word retirement doesn't quite mean what it used to, many people do wait until some form of retirement to finally buy a house they've always dreamed about.

If this sounds like you - whether the time is near or still years away - don't let all the excitement blind you from a few very important points.

An article from US News and World's Report highlights five things to consider before making a new home purchase in retirement. It's good advice for any home purchase made later in life, so keep this information in the back of your mind if and when the time comes to buy that dream house.

1. Don't get stuck in a location just because of its beauty or weather.

2. Make sure your home is built for aging in place.

3. Don't tie up all your cash in a house.

4. Consider long-term housing costs.

5. Don't forget to factor in taxes.

Some of these things may seem like common sense, but you'd be surprised how easily one or more of these points can slip through the cracks when your mind is already off enjoying retirement. Read the full article for more details.