When you’re buying a house, feeling a sense of urgency can be a powerful motivator that ultimately saves you thousands of dollars. In today’s competitive real estate market, acting quickly can make the difference between landing your dream home and losing it to another buyer. However, it’s crucial to balance that urgency with careful research and thoughtful decision-making. Rushing into a purchase without proper due diligence can lead to costly mistakes that may haunt you long after the sale is finalized. To help you navigate this complex process with confidence, we’ve compiled a list of 10 home buying pricey mistakes and pitfalls to avoid. By being informed and prepared, you can make smarter choices and embark on your purchasing journey with peace of mind.

The 10 Home Buying Pricey Mistakes

1. Waiting to Get Preapproved

Ideally, you should get pre-approved for a loan as soon as possible. This will not only help you lock in the most favorable rates but also give you a clear indication of your budget so you can bid on homes fast.

2. Neglecting to Compare Lenders

Although conditions are favorable for buyers, you still want to look for the best deal. A small difference in loan terms can save you a lot of money. With that in mind, it’s crucial to talk to at least three lenders before making a decision.

3. Failing to Set a Realistic Budget

When buying a house, your loan amount is only part of what you need to know. You should also write a budget, so you can see precisely what mortgage payment will fit your lifestyle. Don’t forget to get estimates on utilities for your home and add in the cost of annual maintenance, too.

4. Not Saving Up Beforehand

Start saving about 12 months in advance to prepare for your down payment. If you have a shorter time horizon, be sure to ask your real estate agent about home loan programs for first-time buyers. These often have low or no down payment.

5. Checking Your Credit Report Too Late

Your credit score is a guideline lenders use to understand your creditworthiness at a glance. Before you look for a home loan, though, you should also check your credit report for errors and contest any mistakes you find.

6. Not Paying Down Debts

Besides your raw credit score, lenders also look at your debt-to-income ratio to understand how much you can afford to pay. Paying off credit cards and avoiding new obligations, such as auto loans, keeps your ratio in line.

7. Leaving the Neighborhood for Last

It’s possible to fall in love with a home in a neighborhood that doesn’t serve your needs. Always spend time checking out the neighborhood early on. That should include driving and walking through in the morning, afternoon, and evening, both weekdays and weekends.

8. Not Tapping Your Real Estate Agent

A good agent is a local expert who can keep you on track in all kinds of ways. One of the most vital: He or she can help you accurately estimate the costs of living in a neighborhood, so you use them in your budget.

9. Being Unclear About Your Goals

Many loan programs allow you to use gift money from family members, friends, your boss, or even a charity for down payments. If there’s a chance someone in your life might want to offer you a gift, loop them into your plans early, so you’re all on the same page.

10. Skipping the Home Inspection

No matter how pressing your timeline is, there’s never a good reason to skip a home inspection. The inspection can uncover serious problems that ultimately amount to big repair bills. Getting a thorough inspection is essential for “as-is” homes.

Done right, purchasing a house can be the best decision you’ve ever made. Keep these 10 home buying pricey mistakes to avoid in mind so you can truly get the best deal on the home you want. Ready to find your new home? As one of Albuquerque’s top brokers, I’d love to work with you!