10/15/2026
The 3️⃣ biggest mistakes I see potential homebuyers make:
1️⃣ Focusing on interest rate/sales price instead of the actual payment and tax benefit. Many homebuyers have sticker shock when they hear about interest rates and purchase prices without understanding what that means in housing expense. A good portion of your payment is tax deductible and when we break down the numbers between renting vs. buying over years of time, it’s very clear on what makes the most financial sense. Find out what a scenario for purchasing looks like for you based on your comfort level of monthly payment so you’re still able to save each month and also take advantage of homeownership benefits.
2️⃣ Waiting for the market to crash: it’s not gonna happen. Prices may go up and down a little bit with supply and demand, but that is normal and waiting for a “regular” market has a cost because the longer you own an investment the more it will be worth.
3️⃣ “Looking around” without being preapproved or understanding your purchasing power. If you are stopping by open houses and making appointments with real estate agents through Redfin and Zillow without speaking to a local lender who has not only discussed what you can be approved for, but also what you should be targeting for payment in order to be comfortable and make a good investment-you’re setting yourself up for stress and disappointment. Getting preapproved with a soft inquiry does not hurt your credit score, and there is absolutely zero reason why you shouldn’t have a conversation with a lender if you are thinking about buying in the next 1-2 years.
These are all mistakes that can cost you thousands and thousands of dollars. Take it from me-I’ve been a mortgage professional for the last 17 years and I’ve seen a lot!
