Current trends show that buyer demand for homes is high and rising. If you’re in the market, here are 10 common mistakes buyers make and how to avoid them:

  1. Not doing proper research and preparation – understanding your financial situation and knowing the neighborhood are two huge factors to take into consideration.​
  2. Have your loan preapproved before searching! This gives you a competitive advantage over other buyers in the same market.
  3. Don’t be influenced by the market over your own needs – have a professional agent in your corner to sort out confusing messages you might find in the media.
  4. Going beyond your budget – take the time to find the perfect home, and make sure it’s one that matches your financial capabilities.
  5. Falling in love isn’t a huge mistake – but letting the sellers’ agent know you’re in love could turn into one, especially when it comes down to the negotiation process.
  6. It’s not all about price – price is what you pay, value is what you get!
  7. Not having the right protection clauses in the contract of sale – another reason to have a professional, experienced agent on your side!
  8. Underestimating the full costs of buying a home, such as acquisition costs and ongoing costs of owning a property.
  9. Not organizing a professional inspection – Inspectors are trained to find faults, if the list is long, don’t be worried! Just focus on the major issues.
  10. Going solo – buying a home is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make – don’t do it alone! Having a professional agent on your side will give you peace of mind and make the whole process easier to understand.