Step two, look at your work environment and transportation patterns. Step three relates to family needs. That helps narrow neighborhoods down. You may have a list of five or six neighborhoods that are attractive. Then the other three ingredients will narrow your choice.
Buyers generally prefer either established or brand new neighborhoods.
Each has plusses. Older neighborhoods such as Mission Hills and La Jolla have stately trees, attractive walkable sidewalks, distinctive and varied architecture, mature landscapes, and established commercial districts with a variety of shops and restaurants. Some older neighborhoods also have excellent schools and parks, but others were poorly planned. New homes also offer larger rooms, higher ceilings and more storage. You don't want a patio cover that clutters up the street scene.