Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. It’s exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time going through the process.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping many people here in Pittsburgh and beyond purchase homes, and while every situation is unique, I’ve noticed some common mistakes that pop up again and again.
The good news? These mistakes are easy to avoid once you know about them.
My goal is to make sure you’re walking into the homebuying process prepared, confident, and able to make decisions that serve you and your family best. Let’s dig into the three most common homebuying mistakes I see and how you can avoid them.
The Biggest Homebuying Mistakes
Here are three of the most common mistakes I see over and over again, especially with first-time homebuyers:
Mistake #1: Looking at a Property Without a Preapproval
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people fall in love with a house only to find out later that it’s out of reach. It’s one of the hardest conversations to have, because once your heart is set on a place, it’s tough to walk away. That’s why getting a preapproval should always come first.
Why Preapproval Matters
Think of preapproval as your roadmap. It tells you what price range you can realistically shop in, how much your monthly payment will look like, and whether or not you’re in a good position to make an offer. In today’s competitive market, sellers also want to see that you’ve taken this step — it shows you’re serious and ready to move forward.
The Emotional Side of It
House hunting is an emotional process. You’re not just looking at walls and windows; you’re picturing birthdays in the dining room, kids playing in the backyard, or cozy evenings in the living room. If you look before you’re preapproved, you risk falling for a house that’s simply not the right financial fit. That can lead to heartbreak and wasted time.
How to Avoid This Mistake
Get preapproved early. Even if you’re just starting to think about buying, a preapproval gives you clarity. It also helps me as your mortgage broker because we can talk through different loan products, grants, and options that may open more doors for you (sometimes literally).
Mistake #2: Making Big Purchases During the Mortgage Process
When you’re in the middle of buying a house, it’s natural to start imagining how you’ll fill it. A new living room set, maybe a big TV, or even that car you’ve been eyeing to match your new garage. But here’s the truth: big purchases during the mortgage process can be a dealbreaker.
Why It’s a Problem
When lenders look at your file, they’re reviewing your financial snapshot at a very specific point in time. If you add new debt — say, a furniture purchase on a credit card or a car loan — it changes your debt-to-income ratio. Even if you could “technically” afford both, lenders see this as a red flag, and it can cause delays, higher rates, or even derail your approval.
The Furniture Trap
Most people assume I’m talking about cars here, but honestly? Furniture is the bigger culprit. Stores often tempt you with zero-percent financing or “buy now, pay later” promotions, and it feels harmless. But those still count as debt, and they can hurt your mortgage application.
How to Avoid This Mistake
My rule of thumb: if you’re under contract for a house, don’t make any big purchases until after you’ve closed. Keep your finances as steady as possible. If you’re not sure whether something will affect your loan, call me. I’d rather you check in than risk your approval.
Mistake #3: Focusing Only on the Interest Rate
This one is tricky because interest rates are a big part of your loan, and of course you want the lowest rate you can get. But the interest rate isn’t the whole picture.
The Bigger Picture
What really matters is how much money leaves your bank account every month. That includes your principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and sometimes other costs like PMI (private mortgage insurance). A slightly lower rate doesn’t always equal a better deal if the overall loan structure doesn’t fit your goals.
For example, let’s say Lender A offers you a 6.25% interest rate, but with higher fees upfront. Lender B offers 6.5%, but with lower fees and a grant that covers some of your closing costs. Even though Lender B’s rate is technically higher, your monthly payment and upfront cost may be much more manageable.
How I Approach This
As a broker, I have access to a wide range of products and grants that banks simply can’t offer. That means I can compare options side by side and show you how they actually affect your budget. I always encourage clients to look at the full package: the rate, the monthly payment, the upfront costs, and the long-term picture.
How to Avoid This Mistake
Don’t get tunnel vision on the rate. Instead, focus on your monthly comfort zone and your long-term goals. Maybe you’re planning to stay in this home for 30 years, or maybe you know you’ll upgrade in five. The right loan for you should align with those plans — and sometimes that means the “lowest rate” isn’t actually the best choice.
Putting It All Together
The homebuying process has a lot of moving parts, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. That’s why it’s so important to follow these best practices:
- Get preapproved first so you know your budget and avoid falling for a house that isn’t a good fit.
- Keep your finances steady during the process — no new cars, no new furniture — until after you close.
- Look at the whole mortgage package, not just the rate, to make sure you’re actually getting the best deal for your situation.
Remember, buying a home isn’t just a transaction. It’s about setting yourself up for long-term success and comfort. My job is to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and make sure you have access to the best options out there.
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about buying a home, my biggest piece of advice is this: Don’t try to do it all alone. Having the right people in your corner — a knowledgeable real estate agent, a supportive mortgage broker, and even family and friends who can help you think through the big decisions — makes the journey smoother and less stressful.