In my case...usually..

1. I do research thru web...looking for what I want...such as breed, colors, temp. etc

2. budget...I'll try to figure it out how much I would rather spent. One at a time..If I'm looking for colors...I add that particular colors first..then save more money to get another if necessary...I love to have 2 each breed (in my case Forest Cats)

3. Browse thru breeder website...looks for what they produce (again colors,temp etc)..their term & cons..

4. In my last time, I use EMail to communicate..I found this a little not properly...Now, I love to sits down with my future breeder..get to know him/her...visit their cattery (if invited)..talk about what I want...they usually come out with very goooood advices.

5. When I found my 'target' kitten...I get to know the kitten personally..such as its health..diet etc..then if everythings satisfied..paid the booking fee.

6. Make sure everythings in order such as health cert, guarantee, registry cert...before full payment.

TRUST is the main things here...both party must being 'transparent' each other...