Purchasing a home is an important life event. It can be exciting, but also stressful if you’re not fully prepared. At Nonna Homes, we’ve helped many people through this journey, and we’ve seen some common mistakes that can make things harder than they need to be. Here are some simple tips to help you avoid those mistakes and make your homebuying experience smoother.

1. Not Getting Pre-Approved First

Many people start looking at homes before talking to a lender. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage helps you understand how much you can afford. It also shows sellers that you’re serious. Without this step, you might fall in love with a home that’s out of your price range—or miss out on a good one because you weren’t ready.

Pre-approval shows how much you can borrow.
Makes it easier to focus on homes that fit your financial situation.
Makes your offer stronger in the eyes of sellers.
Saves time by focusing only on homes you can afford.
Avoids disappointment from falling for homes out of reach.

2. Forgetting About Extra Costs

There are other expenses to consider besides the home's price. There are also property taxes, insurance, repairs, and utility bills. Some homes may also need updates or maintenance. Make sure you include these in your budget so you’re not caught off guard later.

3. Skipping the Home Inspection

It might seem like a good idea to skip the home inspection to save time or money, but that’s risky. A home inspection can find problems that aren’t easy to see—like leaks, wiring issues, or roof damage. It’s better to know what you’re getting into before you buy.

4. Letting Emotions Take Over

It’s easy to get attached to a home because of how it looks or feels. But don’t let your heart make all the decisions. Consider the following facts: your budget, your long-term needs, the neighborhood, and the state of the house. Stay calm and take your time.

Don’t buy a home just because it “feels right.”
Look past the décor and imagine the long-term fit.
Review the facts: condition, location, cost, and future needs.
Stay calm and don’t rush into decisions.
Balance your heart with your head while choosing.

5. Stretching Your Budget Too Far

You shouldn't borrow a certain amount just because a bank says you can. Buying a home at the top of your budget can make it hard to handle other expenses. Choose something you can afford comfortably, so you’re not stressed every month.

6. Choosing the Wrong Agent

The correct real estate agent can have a significant impact. A good agent helps you understand the process, finds homes that match your needs, and makes sure you get a fair deal. At Nonna Homes, we always focus on what’s best for our buyers—we’re here to guide, not pressure.

7. Not Checking Out the Neighborhood

The house might be great, but what about the area around it? Spend some time in the neighborhood. Look at traffic, nearby stores, schools, and parks. Consider going at various times of day. Make sure it’s a place where you’ll feel safe and happy.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home doesn’t have to be stressful. If you take your time, plan ahead, and avoid these common mistakes, you’ll be in a much better position. At Nonna Homes, we care about helping you find not just any home—but the right one for you and your family.

Nonna Homes Explains the Most Common Homebuying Mistakes to Avoid