What should I look for when buying a gun?

For use in the home only for self protection. I would definitely take a class because I am not comfortable around guns. Never thought I’d own one, but I don’t want to be unprotected…..stuff happens and I want to be as prepared as I can be. This hasn’t been an easy decision, and honestly, I don’t know if I could really ever buy or even use one. I am all for peace but I also have a responsibility to protect myself and those I love.