Here ya go:
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If the generator will be for your home... then you'll need to determine what items you want to power up (and when).
Generators run the gamut from emergency portable units (provide power for lights, run fans, refrigerator, etc..) to large "standby" units that can power the entire house.
Most folks opt for medium sized portable units: 5,000-8,000 watts typically. One consideration is the "surge rating" of the unit. All generators have a "continuous use" and a "surge" rating. The surge occurs when items such as refrigerators start and stop.
Items such as light bulbs, burners on a stove, heater, are "resistive" and have a constant wattage. Be sure to purchase a unit with a generous surge rating if plan to run a lot items with motors.... or anything that has a start up draw, (tv, computer, etc).
DO NOT buy any of the cheap Chinese "knock off" generators, you will hate yourself later.
Consider your fuel source and how often you anticipate needing to use your generator. Gasoline gens. are the most common, but if you store one with gas in the tank (and carb. bowl), don't be surprised if it won't start a year or so later because the fuel has turned to varnish. Fuel stabilizers such as "Sta-Bil" will help, but its best to run the carb dry and empty the tank if you are going to store it for a long time.
You can convert most gas generators to a "tri-fuel" configuration by adding a kit (or they can be bought that way). Then you have the choice of running it on Gas, Propane, or Natural gas. Just turn off one fuel source and turn on the one you want to use. Propane has no real storage drawbacks (it remains stable for years). You can always find propane, but not always fresh gas (hurricane evacuations and the days afterward).
You'll also need to consider how you want to transfer the generated power to your home/appliances/devices. Most folks use appropriately sized extension cords, but you can also have an electrician install a transfer switch that allows you to just plug into the gen. set and then the receptacle. Of course, there are at least a half dozen ways to rig up your own power inlet box...but I can't list them here for liability reasons.
You would do well to study up on the subject before making a purchase. There is actually more to know than the average homeowner realizes. Good luck...and let us know if you have any questions.
Flint.
