After years of trial and error, I figured out what the most important qualities are in a potential mate, the non-negotiable eliminators, and what qualities would be fantastic, but aren't necessarily necessary. Helena Rosenberg discusses the same issue in one of her "Dating Tips" videos, which is worth watching.

Deal-makers: Reasonable degree of sanity, sense of humor, reasonably honest (we all tell lies from time to time, no matter how "totally honest" someone claims to be), ambitious, innovative, gives me my space and doesn't feel threatened by it, willing to try new things, not afraid of standing up to me (I can be a bit of pill occasionally), content to just sit together and do nothing, comfortable in silence and in communication (although, some of the best conversations I've had have been when neither person says a word).

Deal-breakers: Unreasonable degree of insanity, lack of humor, pathologically dishonest and/or claims to be the most honest person you'll ever meet (the gentlemen doth protest too much), unoriginal thinker, smothering/clingy/needy, willing to spot weld the television remote to his hand, spineless jellyfishes, someone uncomfortable in silence and feels the need to talk everything to death.

Wish list, but alright if absent (these are "wishes," NOT "must's"): Does love mean never having to say you're sorry or never having to watch a televised sporting event? The toilet seat is always down (although, I know how to loosen the bolts so the seat slams down of its own accord when not held up, so really, a non-issue), reads aloud to me when I have trouble sleeping, enjoys a good strong pint of beer, comfortable in any environment, thinks "Death to Smoochy" is one of the most underrated comedies ever.
Knowing what you want is half the battle; knowing what you don't want is the other half.