1. Skipping the Pre-Approval Step Before you fall in love with a home, know what you can afford. A pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious — and gives you clarity when making offers. We connect you with trusted local lenders who make the process smooth and fast. 2. Shopping Without a Strategy Browsing Zillow is fun. But buying smart means understanding what matters most: budget, location, lifestyle, and timeline. We’ll help you clarify your priorities — then filter out what doesn’t fit. 3. Underestimating Neighborhood Vibe You’re not just buying a house — you’re buying into a community. We’ll walk you through the block, the local coffee spots, school ratings, and what the neighborhood feels like day-to-day. 4. Forgetting About the Full Cost of Ownership Beyond the price tag, there are closing costs, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance to budget for. We’ll break it all down in plain English so there are no surprises. 5. Trying to “Time” the Market Waiting for the perfect price or interest rate can backfire. Instead, we focus on your timing — making sure you buy when it’s right for your goals, not just headlines.