1. Not Hiring Your Own REALTOR®
Using the seller’s REALTOR® means that he or she is representing you both, and may not solely have your best interests in mind. Hire your own agent, and if you come across a home that you are interested in, have your REALTOR® up the viewing and negotiate on your behalf.

2. Letting Emotion Rule the Purchase
It is easy to let emotions get the best of you when purchasing a home. Falling in love with a home at first sight can lead you to overlook potential structural problems, affordability issues and lessen your bargaining power. Viewing a number of homes will let you compare prices, designs and affordability with an open mind.

3. Purchasing a Home After Viewing it Only Once
Once you have found a home that is perfect in every way for your family, go back and look at it again. The first time through a home can be overwhelming. Make a list of exact considerations that you want to note about the home and go back for a second look. This way you will be able to concentrate on smaller details rather than just looking at the big picture.

4. Using a Discount Home Inspection Service
Hire your own inspection company and never take recommendations from the seller or their agent. This should be someone that is completely unbiased and working for you. Do not skimp either – you get what you pay for. Hiring an inexperienced or considerably cheaper than average inspection company may end up costing you via expensive repairs down the road.

5. Don’t Shop Around For a Mortgage
Just because you have worked with the same banker for the past two decades does not necessarily mean that they are going to give you the best rates and terms. Check out a variety of banks, brokers and lending institutions and find the best mortgage for you.

6. Don’t Consider Resale Value
While you may plan to live in the home for the foreseeable future, things change and you will want to consider the resale value of any potential home before you make the final purchase so that you lessen the chance of losing money on it in the future.