THE DO's AND DON'Ts( AS A FIRST TIME HOME OWNER)

The Do’s: Smart Steps for Success

✅ Do Your Homework

Understand current market trends in your area. Are prices rising or stabilizing? Is it a buyer’s or a seller’s market? Researching local comps (comparable sales) can give you a realistic picture of value.

✅ Do Get Pre-Approved If you're buying, getting pre-approved for a mortgage shows sellers you're serious and gives you a clear idea of what you can afford. It also helps you avoid falling in love with a home that's out of your budget.

✅ Do Work With a Trusted Agent An experienced real estate agent acts as your advocate, negotiator, and market expert. They bring knowledge, resources, and objectivity—especially when emotions might cloud your judgment.

✅ Do Ask Questions No question is too small. If something doesn’t make sense—whether it's in a contract or a listing—ask! A good agent will be happy to explain every detail.

The Don’ts: Avoid These Common Mistakes

🚫 Don’t Skip the Inspection Even if a home looks perfect, always get a professional home inspection. It can uncover hidden issues that may cost thousands down the line.

🚫 Don’t Overextend Your Budget Just because a lender approves you for a certain amount doesn't mean you should spend it all. Consider future expenses, unexpected repairs, and your lifestyle.

🚫 Don’t Make Big Financial Changes Mid-Process Avoid opening new credit cards, making large purchases, or changing jobs while under contract. These can affect your loan approval or delay closing.

🚫 Don’t Go It Alone Real estate transactions are complex. Trying to buy or sell without professional guidance can lead to costly mistakes.

When to Ask for Help

Knowing when to bring in a professional can save you time, stress, and money. Here are a few signs it’s time to ask for help:

• You're not sure how much to offer (or list) a home for

• You’re confused by contracts or negotiation terms

• You’re feeling overwhelmed by the process or timeline

• You’ve viewed multiple homes and none feel right—you may need a fresh strategy

• You suspect a deal might not be in your best interest

How to Know If You’re Being Overcharged

Whether you’re buying or selling, overpaying (or underpricing) can be a major setback. Here’s how to stay alert:

💲 Compare Local CompsHomes of similar size, age, and condition in the same neighborhood should fall within a certain price range. If a home is significantly above that, it may be overpriced.

🔍 Check Price Per Square Foot Divide the home’s price by its square footage to get a price per square foot. Then compare that number with others in the area.

💡 Look Past the Staging, Beautiful furniture and fresh paint can make a home seem more valuable than it is. Focus on structure, layout, and long-term value—not just aesthetics.

💬 Ask for a Breakdown of Fees Your agent, lender, or attorney should provide a clear explanation of all costs—including commissions, closing fees, and miscellaneous charges. If something seems high or unclear, speak up.