There could be a whole host of reasons as to why you want to buy, from it being the preferred option to a traditional pension, or maybe your savings interest rates are falling below your expectations. From the start you need to know exactly what you should be looking for, what cautions you will need to take as an investor, whilst looking at your investment as if it is you that is renting the property.
Firstly, if you don't have a specific location in mind that you want to begin looking in, then begin by researching the different locations available. There are many guides online to areas, local amenities, schools and other life essentials, so have a look around to find where you think will suit you best.