Buying your first home is exciting — like “OMG I can’t believe this is happening” exciting.
But let’s be honest… it can also be confusing, overwhelming, and full of little traps no one warns you about.
So here’s the real talk.
These are the top 5 mistakes first-time buyers make — and how to avoid them so your journey is smooth, stress-free, and actually fun.
1️⃣ Skipping the Pre-Approval
I see this all the time.
People start house hunting with vibes and hope, not numbers and strategy.
Then what happens?
They fall in love with a house… only to find out later they can’t afford it. 💔
A proper pre-approval:
Shows exactly what you qualify for
Makes your offer ststronger
Saves you from stress and surprises
Trust me — start here.
2️⃣ Only Shopping for “the Best Rate”
Listen… I get it.
Everyone loves a good rate.
But mortgages are NOT one-size-fits-all.
A low rate means nothing if:
The penalties are massive
The terms trap you
The lender isn’t flexible
It doesn’t fit your long-term plans
It’s like buying shoes only because they’re on sale — even though they hurt your feet.
Don’t do it.
3️⃣ Forgetting About Closing Costs
Down payment isn’t the only thing you need.
Closing costs always pop up, and first-time buyers are SHOOK every time.
Think:
Land transfer tax
Legal fees
Home inspection
Adjustments
Appraisal
Moving costs
Plan for it now so you’re not scrambling later.
4️⃣ Making Big Purchases Before Closing
This one is a heartbreaker.
You get excited, you start buying furniture, maybe a new car… and suddenly your lender says:
“Your ratios changed — you no longer qualify.”
Please, from me to you:
No new credit, no big purchases, no new loans until AFTER you get the keys.
5️⃣ Not Asking for Help Early Enough
The earlier you talk to me, the more we can prepare.
Whether it’s:
Fixing your credit
Figuring out your budget
Planning your down payment
Structuring your file
Making you competitive in this market
Waiting until the last minute only makes things harder.
⭐ Here’s the good news
Every single one of these mistakes is 100% avoidable — when you have the right guidance.
And that’s where I come in.
As a mortgage agent AND a licensed REALTOR®, I help buyers understand the numbers and the real estate side, so everything works together.
If you're thinking about buying your first home, message me.
Let’s get you set up the right way from day one. 💛
From Loan to Home — Your Trusted Path to Ownership. 🏡