12 first-time homebuyer mistakes and how to avoid them

‍Buying your first home is a milestone nearly everyone dreams of, and while it’s certainly exciting, it also requires patience, poise, and mindfulness. Before you start your search, there are several critical factors first-time home buyers need to consider — including some common pitfalls to avoid. 

1. Not researching the market

Before starting your house search, do your research. Failing to do so can lead to overpaying for a property or missing out on better opportunities. Your real estate agent will likely do the heavy lifting here, but it can be a good idea to do your own research on real estate market trends before you get started. 

Utilize online resources to explore local real estate listings and get a feel for prices in different neighborhoods. It’s also a good idea to attend open houses to get a look at different types of properties and see what’s available within your budget.

2. Skipping mortgage pre-approval

Before you begin looking at homes, it’s essential to get a mortgage pre-approval from your lender. This process will give you a better understanding of your budget and increase your chances of securing a loan. With a pre-approval letter in hand, you can confidently make offers on properties that fit within your budget, knowing you have the financial backing to make the purchase.

3. Ignoring additional costs

This is a major home buying mistake many people don’t realize they’ve made until they’re confronted with loan origination paperwork. The offer you make on a home is rarely the final purchase price you’re going to pay. Closing costs, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs are all examples of additional costs of buying a home you should be aware of and budget for. If you don’t plan for these expenses, they can strain your budget and make homeownership a challenging experience.

4. Not factoring in future needs

When thinking about how to buy your first home, always consider your long-term plans and the suitability of the property. Buying a house that doesn’t meet your future needs can lead to dissatisfaction and additional expenses down the line. 

Do you need a yard for pets or kids to play? Are you planning to have or grow your family? Consider whether the property is big enough for you to expand. You don’t want to buy a house that’s too small only to have to find a bigger one a year later. Asking these questions helps you to make the right decision.

5. Overlooking home inspections

A home inspection is an important part of the home-buying process—especially if you’re buying as-is. Skipping a professional inspection can leave you unaware of potential issues, resulting in unexpected repair costs. 

While this is an additional expense for the buyer, investing in a professional inspection from a reputable expert comes with significant benefits. Not only does it reveal previously-unknown issues; it can help you negotiate better when it comes to an offer and give you confidence in the property you’re buying. 

6. Focusing solely on the purchase price

Many first-time homebuyers fixate on the purchase price of a property. While it’s essential to stay within your budget, you should also consider the quality and condition of the property. A cheaper home that requires extensive repairs may end up costing you more in the long run. Consider the potential cost of renovations, repairs, and maintenance when assessing a property’s value. It’s good to stick to a budget, but make sure there’s more to that budget than the sale price.

Learn about whether you should buy a fixer-upper or move-in ready house 

7. Ignoring the neighborhood

Choosing the right house location and neighborhood is as crucial as finding the right property. Research the area thoroughly, considering factors like safety, walkability, and proximity to amenities, schools, and transportation. Your neighborhood has a huge impact on your everyday life, so choose carefully and think about your priorities. Do you need to be within walking distance of a grocery store? Is easy access to parks and trails a must-have? Your neighborhood directly correlates with your lifestyle, daily commute, and property value. 

8. Not considering the resale value

Even if you plan on living in your new home for many years, you should still consider its resale value. Knowing what buyers in your area are looking for can help you make smart choices about your purchase. Take note of the features that appeal to potential buyers, such as the layout of your interior spaces, your neighborhood, and any “extras” like a private outdoor space, mature landscaping, a home automation system, a swimming pool, and more.

By keeping resale value in mind, you can feel confident that your investment will continue to hold its value — and hopefully increase — over time.

Learn about what increases home value

9. Maxing out your budget

When planning how to buy their first home, many first-time homebuyers stretch themselves thin to afford a property. Inevitably, unexpected expenses occur, and without a cash cushion, it can lead to financial difficulties and missed payments at worst, and end up house-poor in the least. Avoid this by leaving room in your budget for unforeseen expenses. Plan for additional closing costs, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and repairs, and leave enough room to cover any future financial issues or emergency expenses that could occur.

10. Not getting multiple quotes

There are several significant expenses involved with home ownership—it’s one of those first-time home buyer things to know right from the get-go. From your mortgage to homeowner’s insurance, and even the professionals you hire to get your new property just how you like it, everything adds up. While it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of home ownership, don’t make the mistake of settling for the first quotes you receive. Take the time to research your options and negotiate where possible to ensure you get the best deals possible. 

11. Skipping a thorough contract review

Contracts and agreements outline everything from the terms of the sale to the rights and responsibilities of the parties involved. Unfortunately, many first-time home buyers don’t take the time to review them carefully. Avoid this home buying mistake by reading and understanding all contracts and agreements associated with the home purchase. Ask your real estate agent or attorney to go over the documents with you if you need more clarification. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request explanations on anything that seems unclear.

12. Rushing the process

Buying a home is a big deal! Pushing through the process as quickly as possible can lead to hasty decisions and buyer’s remorse. It’s important to take your time, conduct thorough research, and make informed choices. Before starting your home search, determine your budget, look into different neighborhoods, and identify your must-haves. Don’t settle for a home that doesn’t meet your needs just because you’re in a rush. Remember, it’s better to wait and find the right home than to rush into a home purchase you’ll regret.

Buying a home for the first time can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. It’s important to avoid common home buying mistakes that can lead to regrets down the line. Remember to take your time and keep the errors above in mind as you search for your dream house. With some patience and due diligence, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect home!

FAQs

Here is more information about homebuying mistakes and regret.

What are some common mistakes first-time homebuyers make?

Common mistakes made by first-time homebuyers include underestimating the costs of homeownership, failing to get pre-approved for a mortgage, not considering resale value, and rushing into a purchase without doing proper research.

How can I avoid making mistakes as a first-time homebuyer?

To avoid making mistakes as a first-time homebuyer, it's important to do your research, work with experienced professionals, and take your time when making decisions. Get pre-approved for a mortgage, hire a reputable real estate agent, and have a home inspection done.

What are some financial mistakes first-time homebuyers make?

Financial mistakes made by first-time homebuyers include overextending themselves by buying more home than they can afford, failing to factor in closing costs, and not having an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses or repairs.