{"id":71616,"date":"2025-06-27T11:27:27","date_gmt":"2025-06-27T18:27:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?page_id=71616"},"modified":"2025-07-08T08:04:23","modified_gmt":"2025-07-08T15:04:23","slug":"first-time-homebuyer-mistakes-to-avoid","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/first-time-homebuyer-mistakes-to-avoid\/","title":{"rendered":"17 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes to Consider and How to Avoid Them"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b>Key Takeaways:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shopping mortgage rates, reviewing your credit report, and looking into first-time home buyer programs can improve your financial situation and increase your choices.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Making emotional decisions can lead to overpaying or buying a home that doesn\u2019t fit your long-term needs. Stay grounded by focusing on your priorities and budget.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&#8217;t skip critical steps like the home inspection or negotiating closing costs. These can greatly affect both the quality of your purchase and your bottom-line expense.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ve saved for a down payment and spent more time scrolling through listings than you\u2019d like to admit. One thing is clear; you\u2019re ready to dive into homeownership. But before you sign on the dotted line, it\u2019s important to know that even the most prepared buyers can still make mistakes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this article, we\u2019ll outline 17 common mistakes for first-time homebuyers. Whether you\u2019re purchasing your first home in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/14240\/AZ\/Phoenix\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phoenix, AZ<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/18807\/NJ\/Trenton\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trenton, NJ<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, here\u2019s what you need to know before starting the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/buy#homebuying-process\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">homebuying process<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-102560 size-blog-post\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/First-time-homebuyer-mistakes-945x630.jpg\" alt=\"First-time homebuyer mistakes to avoid\" width=\"945\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/First-time-homebuyer-mistakes-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/First-time-homebuyer-mistakes-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/First-time-homebuyer-mistakes-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/First-time-homebuyer-mistakes-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/First-time-homebuyer-mistakes-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/First-time-homebuyer-mistakes-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/First-time-homebuyer-mistakes.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Not getting pre-approved for a home loan before starting your search<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A common mistake for first-time homebuyers is jumping into the search without first getting pre-approved for a mortgage. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/mortgage-pre-approval\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mortgage pre-approval<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> serves several purposes:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Determines how much you can afford to borrow\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signals to agents and sellers that you\u2019re more reliable<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expedites the mortgage application process<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Locks in an interest rate for that specific period<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take the time to get pre-approved by a lender before starting your home search. Start by researching reputable lenders and comparing their offerings, submit accurate documentation to them, and respond promptly to their requests. Preapproval typically lasts 60 to 90 days, so it\u2019s best to apply when you\u2019re ready to start seriously looking for a home.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Only getting one mortgage rate quote<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many first-time buyers make the mistake of going with the first lender they talk to, not realizing that <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/todays-mortgage-rates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">interest rates<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, fees, and loan terms can vary widely from one lender to the next.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even a small difference in your mortgage rate can really add up over the life of the loan, so it\u2019s worth your time to shop around. For instance, on a $350,000 mortgage, a 3.5% interest rate instead of 4% can save you over $35,000 in interest payments over 30 years.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Request quotes from at least three different lenders and compare more than just the interest rate. Take note of closing costs, loan terms, and any additional fees. A little extra research goes a long way.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Overlooking your credit score<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your credit score plays a major role in whether you\u2019ll qualify for a mortgage loan and the interest rate you\u2019ll secure. Still, many first-time buyers start the process without reviewing their credit report or knowing where they stand. Since lenders use your credit history to assess risk, it\u2019s essential to make sure everything on your report is accurate and up to date.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check your credit score early and review your credit report for any errors or red flags. If you\u2019re trying to improve your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/what-credit-score-is-needed-to-buy-a-house\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">credit score for what is needed to buy a house<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, focus on paying your bills on time, paying down debt, and avoid maxing out your available credit. During the homebuying process, you should also avoid applying for new credit cards or loans and taking on additional debt as these can impact your credit score and mortgage approval.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-102566 size-blog-post\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/shutterstock_1916669300-945x630.jpg\" alt=\"A woman using her laptop and calculator.\" width=\"945\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/shutterstock_1916669300-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/shutterstock_1916669300-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/shutterstock_1916669300-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/shutterstock_1916669300-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/shutterstock_1916669300-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/shutterstock_1916669300-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/shutterstock_1916669300.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Missing out on first-time homebuyer programs<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Between saving for a down payment and covering closing costs, buying a home can feel financially overwhelming. What many first-time buyers don\u2019t realize is that there are national, state, and even local programs designed to help break down these barriers for new buyers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/first-time-home-buyer-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">first-time homebuyer programs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> available to you. These are tailored specifically for first-time buyers offering down payment assistance, grants, or credits to reduce how much you pay in interest on your loan. This step can make a meaningful difference in affordability.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Not taking advantage of government-backed loans<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A common first-time homebuyer mistake is overlooking government-backed loans when these programs can make homeownership more accessible. Options like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/how-to-buy-a-house-with-fha-loan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA loans<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/interested-in-using-a-va-home-loan-heres-what-you-need-to-know\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">VA loans<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and USDA loans offer low down payments and more lenient credit guidelines. It\u2019s important to note that they have very specific eligibility requirements, but they are worth looking into.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask your lender about any government-backed loan programs you might qualify for. FHA loans are ideal for buyers with lower credit scores, VA loans are for eligible military members and veterans, and USDA loans support buyers in certain rural areas.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Making the right down payment<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some first-time buyers believe it\u2019s necessary to put down 20% when buying a home, but that\u2019s not always the case. Although 20% can be ideal to avoid <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-pmi-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">PMI<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and lower your monthly payment, many loan programs allow for much less.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Talk to your lender about different loan options and how they\u2019ll affect your monthly costs. Then, choose a down payment that makes sense for your financial situation.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. Choosing an inexperienced real estate agent<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/real-estate-agents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">real estate agent<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is your guide, advocate, and negotiator throughout the buying process, so having the right one matters. First-time buyers sometimes choose an agent based on convenience rather than experience, which can lead to missed opportunities, poor communication, or deals that fall through.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When choosing a real estate agent, interview at least three candidates. Prioritize agents with strong local market knowledge, a proven history of working with first-time homebuyers, and a compatible working style.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-102562 size-blog-post\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Real-estate-agent-945x630.jpg\" alt=\"Real estate agent\" width=\"945\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Real-estate-agent-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Real-estate-agent-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Real-estate-agent-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Real-estate-agent-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Real-estate-agent-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Real-estate-agent-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Real-estate-agent.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8. Spending more than you can afford<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Falling in love with a home just outside your budget is all too easy, especially when it has the kitchen of your dreams or a backyard that\u2019s perfect for summer parties. But stretching your finances too thin can lead to years of stress, missed payments, or even having to sell before you&#8217;re ready.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember, buying a home is about more than the purchase price; it\u2019s also about managing the ongoing costs that come with it.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/how-much-house-can-i-afford\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">affordability calculator<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to set a realistic budget before you start house hunting. Make sure to factor in all the extras like property taxes, insurance, maintenance, HOA fees, and monthly debts.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s also smart to stick to the 28\/36 rule: you shouldn\u2019t spend more than 28% of your income on housing costs, and your total debt should not exceed 36% of your annual income. This leaves breathing room in your budget for unexpected expenses and long-term financial goals.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9. Underestimating the costs of homeownership<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your mortgage isn\u2019t the only expense that comes with owning a home. First-time buyers are often surprised by the ongoing costs; things like maintenance, repairs, utilities, landscaping, and unexpected fixes that renters never had to worry about.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Build room in your budget for regular upkeep and surprise repairs. A good rule of thumb is to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsfargo.com\/financial-education\/homeownership\/budgeting-home-maintenance-repairs\/#:~:text=Some%20specialists%20recommend%20setting%20aside,and%20working%20your%20way%20up.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">set aside 1% to 2% of your home\u2019s value each year<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for maintenance. Planning ahead can help you stay on top of costs and enjoy your new home with confidence.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10. Depleting your savings account<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It can be tempting to dip into your savings account to cover your down payment, closing costs, and moving expenses. If you spend all (or the majority) of your savings, you\u2019ll be in a vulnerable position when life brings unexpected bills or emergencies. Making sure you have a financial cushion at all times is a good call.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In line with financial standards, you should aim to maintain <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsfargo.com\/financial-education\/basic-finances\/manage-money\/cashflow-savings\/emergencies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">at least three-to-six months\u2019<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of your living expenses in a savings account. This way, you\u2019ll be protected in case of emergencies.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11. Ignoring moving and upfront costs<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once your offer is accepted, it\u2019s easy to shift into celebration mode, but don\u2019t forget about the costs that come after closing. These include moving costs, setting up utilities, furnishing your space, covering deposits, and more. These upfront expenses can add up fast and catch first-time buyers off guard.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leave some wiggle room in your budget for move-in expenses and surprise costs. And if you\u2019re trying to save, don\u2019t be afraid to tackle parts of the move yourself. Just try to be realistic about what you can handle and what\u2019s best left to professionals.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">12. Letting emotions drive the decision<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buying your first home is a major milestone and it\u2019s only natural to experience a range of emotions. Anxiety, attachment, or even social pressure can cloud your judgment, leading to decisions that don\u2019t align with your budget and long-term goals.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s a good idea to create a clear list of priorities and budget you\u2019re committed to sticking with. If you find yourself emotionally attached to a home outside your budget, take a step back and talk it through with your agent.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">13. Holding out for your dream home<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s easy to picture your dream home. But waiting for a house that checks every single box can leave you stuck in an endless search, especially in a competitive market. The truth is, even the most beautiful homes come with a compromise or two.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus on your must-haves versus your nice-to-haves, and prioritize the things that can\u2019t easily be changed, like location or layout. Cosmetic fixes can come later, but a solid foundation and good bones are worth snapping up when you see them.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">14. Not touring the neighborhood<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A home is part of a larger community. What many first-time homebuyers forget is to explore the surrounding neighborhood. Reflect on things like your daily commute, noise levels, grocery store proximity, and anything else that might affect your daily life.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the neighborhood during different times of the day. Check your commute, visit nearby shops, and see what weekends feel like. If possible, try making conversation with a few neighbors. If the neighborhood doesn\u2019t match your lifestyle or feel like a good fit, the home might not be right for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-102073 size-blog-post\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/neighborhood_shutterstock_2490316275-1120x630.jpg\" alt=\"An aerial view of a neighborhood street with lots of bushy green trees.\" width=\"1120\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/neighborhood_shutterstock_2490316275-1120x630.jpg 1120w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/neighborhood_shutterstock_2490316275-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/neighborhood_shutterstock_2490316275-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/neighborhood_shutterstock_2490316275-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/neighborhood_shutterstock_2490316275-267x150.jpg 267w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/neighborhood_shutterstock_2490316275-533x300.jpg 533w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/neighborhood_shutterstock_2490316275.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1120px) 100vw, 1120px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">15. Not considering the resale value of your home<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When purchasing your first home, it\u2019s easy to get caught up in your current living plans. However, one day, you might outgrow the home or need to relocate. If you aren\u2019t considering the resale value now, selling down the line could be more difficult than expected.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think beyond your current lifestyle, and instead look at how your home will appeal to others in the future. Pay attention to location, school districts, layout, and overall condition. Even if you plan to stay for years, keeping resale in mind will help protect your long-term investment.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">16. Skipping the home inspection<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some people waive the home inspection to speed up the buying process, but skipping this step can be costly in the long run. A qualified inspector will check the grounds of the house, the exterior of the house, each room, the attic, roof, windows, doors, trim, and the roof to note any issues on the property.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure to schedule a professional <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-inspection\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home inspection<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> before committing to your purchase. An <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-inspection-cost\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">inspection typically costs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> between $300 and $500, and it\u2019s well worth the investment. If major repairs are needed, you may be able to use the inspection report to negotiate repairs or a lower purchase price. If no agreement is reached and you have an inspection contingency, you can cancel the sale without penalty and get your earnest money back.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-102561 size-blog-post\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Home-inspection-1120x630.jpg\" alt=\"Home inspection to avoid making first-time homebuyer mistakes\" width=\"1120\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Home-inspection-1120x630.jpg 1120w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Home-inspection-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Home-inspection-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Home-inspection-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Home-inspection-267x150.jpg 267w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Home-inspection-533x300.jpg 533w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Home-inspection.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1120px) 100vw, 1120px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">17. Refraining from negotiating closing costs<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Closing costs include fees for services like the home appraisal and title search, typically paid out of pocket at closing. Many first-time buyers aren\u2019t aware that closing costs are often negotiable. Because these costs aren\u2019t set in stone, you may be able to negotiate with the seller, especially in a buyer\u2019s market, to cover a portion of them.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s what to do instead:<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Talk to your real estate agent about negotiating closing costs when making your offer, and consider bringing it up again after the home inspection. If the inspection reveals issues that affect the home\u2019s value, the seller may be more open to covering some costs. Stay professional, be clear about your requests, and keep your local <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/us-housing-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">housing market<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> conditions in mind when negotiating.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preventing the biggest first-time homebuyer mistakes<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Purchasing your first home is a huge milestone packed with decisions you&#8217;ve probably never made before. Don&#8217;t be surprised if you feel a mixture of excitement and nerves. Just know that with a little preparation and the right mindset, most first-time homebuying mistakes are preventable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take some time to learn the process, ask questions, and don&#8217;t be afraid to lean on your agent when you feel overwhelmed by it all. A little research now can save you a ton of stress (and money) down the line.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FAQs: first-time homebuyer mistakes<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Am I ready to be a homeowner?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s important to consider whether you\u2019re in the financial position to buy a home, as well as the time commitment. If your credit score is in good shape, you can afford monthly expenses, you have a solid savings and emergency fund, you have a stable job, and you\u2019re able to manage your debt, you\u2019re likely in good shape.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much money do I need to buy a home?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll need to account for more than just the down payment. You\u2019ll also need to cover closing costs (about 2% to 6% of your loan amount), moving expenses, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-earnest-money\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">earnest money<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> deposit, and prepaid costs (such as homeowners insurance, property taxes, and mortgage interest)<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Read&gt;&gt; <\/i><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-much-money-do-i-need-to-buy-a-house\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><b><i>How Much Money Do I Need to Buy a Home?<\/i><\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What financial requirements are necessary?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A credit score of 500 is typically needed for mortgage approval. You should also have enough savings for a down payment, closing costs, and an emergency fund. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/buy\/calculate-debt-to-income-ratio\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Calculate your debt-to-income ratio<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which is used by lenders to assess your ability to manage debt and repay new loans.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When is a good time to purchase a home?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you feel emotionally ready to start the home buying process, you have the means, and there are favorable market conditions, it may be a good time to buy a home.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Read&gt;&gt;<\/i><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/is-now-a-good-time-to-buy-a-house\/#:~:text=Key%20takeaways%3A,tariff%20uncertainty%2C%20and%20market%20volatility.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><b><i> Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House?<\/i><\/b><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You\u2019ve saved for a down payment and spent more time scrolling through listings than you\u2019d like to admit, and are ready to dive into homeownership. In this article, we\u2019ll outline 17 common first-time homebuyer mistakes to avoid.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":816,"featured_media":102560,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"default","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"default","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[34276],"tags":[34617],"coauthors":[36415],"class_list":["post-71616","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-buying-a-home","tag-home-buying-process"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v28.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes to Avoid | Redfin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What are the most common mistakes first-time homebuyers make? 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