House Hunting Mistakes – Don’t Risk Losing Your Dream Home
Unless you’ve been through the process before, you may think that starting the hunt for a new home is as easy as clicking through a few websites and cruising neighborhoods for “For Sale” signs. Although most homebuyers understand the importance of the task ahead, many of the most essential “in the weeds” details get lost in the excitement. Once you’ve decided to pursue homeownership, you need to fully commit to the process to reach your goal. The team at Ernest Homes is here to guide you with this list of what not to do when house hunting.
Don’t Underestimate the Commitment Required
The average homebuyer tours at least ten homes over ten weeks before making a decision. While you may find a perfect match early, most shoppers need time to compare options and understand what truly fits their lifestyle. A home purchase is one of the biggest investments you’ll make—and most buyers stay in their home for an average of 13 years. With such long-term impact, taking your time is worth it.
Don’t Skip the “Money Talk”
A common mistake is beginning the search before getting your financing in order. Before you start touring homes, determine what you can comfortably afford, what monthly payment works for your budget, and what maintenance expenses you can manage. Then, secure a mortgage pre-approval. In today’s market, pre-approval is essential—many sellers won’t consider an offer without one.
Don’t Wing It
Before you tour any homes, create two lists: your needs and your wants. Consider how you live today and how you expect to live over the next several years. How many bedrooms do you need? Do you want a home office, large kitchen, or extra storage? Are you planning for children, or will you be downsizing soon? Use your needs/wants list as your guide and avoid homes that can’t check the essential boxes.
Don’t Ignore the Neighborhood
Your dream home isn’t the right choice if it’s in the wrong location. Drive through the neighborhood at different times of day. Are the homes well maintained? Is traffic heavy? Is it quiet enough? Close to work or schools? Does the community feel safe and welcoming? The neighborhood is just as important as the house itself.
Don’t Encourage Comments from the Peanut Gallery
While it’s tempting to bring friends or family for second opinions, keep your home search group small. Those who won’t be living in the home may have opinions based on their own preferences rather than your needs. Helpful feedback is valuable—but too many voices can distract you from what’s truly right for your family.
Don’t Hesitate to Bring in an Expert
Working with a real estate professional can save you time, stress, and potentially thousands of dollars. Agents know the market, understand contract details, and often hear about new listings before they hit the public market. Because sellers typically have an agent representing them, it’s smart to have an expert on your side as well.
We’ve covered some of the early pitfalls that can derail your house-hunting journey. But what about the mistakes many people make right before submitting an offer? Don’t miss Part II—your guide to navigating the homestretch with confidence!
