Five mistakes first-time home buyers make

The expensive ones are easy to avoid once you know them.

Shopping before getting pre-approved

Looking at homes first feels natural, but it sets you up to fall for a house you cannot finance, or to lose one you can because another buyer had their paperwork ready. A pre-approval tells you your real price range and tells sellers you are serious.

Counting only the mortgage payment

Your monthly cost also includes property taxes, homeowners insurance, and in many Florida communities an association fee. Flood or wind coverage can add more. Ask for the full monthly figure on any home before you make an offer.

Changing your finances mid-process

Lenders check your credit again before closing. A new car loan, a new credit card, or a job change between approval and closing can undo the approval. Hold steady until you have the keys.

Skipping or rushing the inspection

An inspection is the cheapest protection you will buy. Roof age, air conditioning, plumbing and electrical issues are common here, and what the inspector finds gives you room to negotiate repairs or credits.

Going it alone

In most purchases the buyer's agent is someone whose job is to look out for you, from pricing an offer to catching problems in the contract. Talk to one early, even if you are months from buying.

General information, not legal, tax or financial advice.