1. Doing it alone. Buying a house is a complex transaction. Even if you don’t use an agent, you’ll need a complete, dependable team: lender, lawyer, inspector, insurer, as well as referrals and advice from friends and family. Enlist the help of these individuals early in the buying process.
2. Buying at first sight. You may be in love with the place, but does it fit your family’s needs and budget? Make a list of your needs and wants and make sure the house fits your requirements.
3. Not getting pre-qualified and pre-approved. Being pre-qualified gives you a general idea of how much you can afford to borrow. Being pre-approved means a lender has verified your information and credit rating and agreed to provide you with a specific amount of money.
4. Overbuying. You may qualify to borrow more, but can you afford to? Analyze your monthly costs: debt, food, transportation, entertainment, and savings. As a general rule, your total monthly debts, including your mortgage, should not exceed 36 percent of your income before taxes.
5. Not having the home properly inspected in a resale. This is not the time for surprises. Get an inspection from a qualified, respected professional.
6. Skipping the fine print. You need to understand what you’re signing before you pick up a pen. Ask for documents in advance, make time to read them and ask questions. Get copies of your mortgage papers a few days ahead of closing.
7. Forgetting or betting on resale. Avoid buying a home that costs 50 percent more than neighboring homes and think before buying the most expensive home on the block. Your neighbors’ lower home values will weaken yours. Remember, markets change.
8. Not checking out the builder’s reputation on a new home. Talk to three or four people who live in the builder’s homes and see what they have to say. If one builder did all the houses in a neighborhood, talk to the residents and get their input. (It’s also a great way to see what your neighbors would be like.)
9. Not getting what you want because you’re impatient. This is a big decision. You need time. Impatient decisions can lead to mistakes.
10. Having buyer’s remorse. No place is perfect. There will always be surprises. Don’t let a few initial blips spoil the whole ride. And don’t miss a great house waiting for the perfect one!
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