What mistakes should first-time buyers avoid?
The big ones: shopping before getting pre-approved, draining all your savings, opening new credit during the process, skipping the inspection, and focusing on the house while ignoring the full monthly cost (taxes, insurance, HOA).
A few I see again and again. Shopping before getting pre-approved, then falling for a home outside your budget. Draining every dollar to close with nothing left for surprises. And opening new credit — a car, furniture on a card — while under contract, which can shake your loan approval.
Two more: skipping or rushing the inspection to win a deal, and fixating on the house while ignoring the true monthly cost (property taxes, insurance, and any HOA). The good news is every one of these is avoidable with a little guidance — which is exactly what I'm here for.
This answer is general education, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Your situation is unique — let's talk through the specifics together.