Preference of work life balance vs salary

Hi folks, I am in bit of dilemma. I am currently working in a service based company for approx 6 years now. I want to switch in a proper product related company. I have worked for multiple clients from client location (worked from client office with their team). After working with them, I have realised they have better work life balance as well as pay (contrary to common beliefs). I am in the interviewing process of a couple of companies and from sources (ex colleagues and friends) have come to know stuff, which may not be proper for me( working overtime always, office politics, appraisal etc.).. I am in a pretty confused state, I have started preparing of interview and stuff..but these info is actually bringing my moral down.. Any suggestions folks? How to stay focused and find the good(well nothing is perfect) place for me to work?