Buying your first home is one of the most exciting milestones in life — but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. As a mortgage professional, I’ve seen many first-time buyers make a few common mistakes that can delay or complicate their homeownership journey.

Let’s go through the Top 5 Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make — and how you can avoid them to make your experience smoother and more rewarding.

✨ Mistake #1: Not Getting Pre-Approved

Many buyers start house hunting without knowing how much they can actually afford.
A mortgage pre-approval gives you a clear idea of your budget, helps you lock in an interest rate, and shows sellers that you’re serious — giving your offer a stronger position in a competitive market.

✨ Mistake #2: Overlooking Closing Costs

Your down payment isn’t the only cost to plan for!
You’ll also need to budget for closing costs like legal fees, land transfer taxes, title insurance, home inspections, and property tax adjustments.
These typically range from 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price — and knowing this upfront helps you avoid surprises later.

✨ Mistake #3: Making Big Purchases Before Closing

It’s tempting to start shopping for new furniture or a car once you’ve found your dream home — but hold off until after closing day!
Large purchases or new credit applications can change your debt-to-income ratio, potentially affecting your mortgage approval or interest rate.