Buying a home can be an exciting but daunting experience, especially for first-time buyers. To help you avoid some common pitfalls, we've put together a list of the top three mistakes people make when buying a home.


1. Not Starting the Preapproval Process Early Enough


Preapproval is a provisional agreement from a lender to provide you with a loan based on preliminary information you provide. It's an essential step in the home buying-process that tells you how much house you can afford, helps you focus your search on viable options, and allows you to identify and address any credit issues before making an offer. Getting preapproved early positions you to move quickly upon finding your ideal home and reduces the chance of losing out to another buyer.


Simple Real Estate can provide expert support for all of your financing-related questions and connect you with a qualified mortgage lender. Contact us or click below to begin the preapproval process.


2. Not Working with a Licensed Real Estate Agent


While homebuyers have access to more information than ever before, filtering through it all can be a challenging chore. By working with a licensed agent, you'll have an expert “on call” to address your specific questions and concerns. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and reduce stress from day one to closing. Here is a partial list of the areas in which your real estate agent can offer invaluable support:

  • Finding homes that match your personal criteria

  • Sharing in-depth knowledge of neighborhoods

  • Navigating legal and financial complexities

  • Dealing with paperwork and other formalities

  • Representing and protecting your interests during offer negotiations

  • Recommending trustworthy professionals such as attorneys, inspectors, and home service providers


At Simple Real Estate, we offer highly personalized and client-centered service to guide you throughout your entire home-buying journey. Contact us or click below to begin your search.


3. Neglecting First-Time Home Buyer Programs


Many homebuyers are unaware of the government grants and programs available to them. In particular, California offers a wide range of assistance for first-time buyers – anyone who has not owned a primary residence in the past three years. The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) offers government-backed first mortgages along with conventional loans that are insured by private mortgage insurance. Down payment and/or closing cost assistance is available in many of these programs. Federal programs are also available for those with low credit scores or limited cash for a down payment. Most of these federal programs are available for both repeat and first-time buyers.


Simple Real Estate can help you identify available programs, determine your eligibility, and guide you through the application process. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you achieve your home ownership goals.