I place a lot of importance on the colour and pattern of an iris and less on form.
In regard to form, I prefer closed standards, fat beards and near horizontal falls but it doesn't bother me if an iris does not meet that criteria unless it is extremely droopy or open. There is only one iris that I have decided to part ways with because I don't like its form and that is Anything Goes. The droopy falls catch my attention every time I look at it.
In regard to colour and patterns, I love bright colours and well defined patterns. If an iris has a band on its falls, I usually prefer it to be a distinct band rather than a band blending into the background colour of the falls. I love blends too but generally when there is no other pattern or banding. I don't think too hard about it. If an iris appeals to me (and I have space), I buy it.
In regard to bud count, I only consider it when I looking for an iris to hybridize or I am trying to choose an iris among others that are similar.
