5 Spooky Home Search Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Real estate services provided through DeLex Realty.

Happy almost-Halloween! My porch has three pumpkins on it, and one of them is already leaning like it's had a rough week.

In honor of the season, let's talk about the scary stuff. Not haunted houses. I mean the home search mistakes that give me goosebumps. The good news? Every one of them is avoidable.

Mistake 1: Shopping before you know your budget

This one is the zombie of real estate. It just keeps coming back.

You scroll listings, fall in love with a house with a pool, then find out it's way out of range. Heartbreak. Talk to a lender first. Then shop. Your heart will thank you.

Mistake 2: Ghosting your lender during the process

Once you're under contract, your lender will ask for documents. Then more documents. Then, I'm sorry to say, a few more documents.

If you go quiet, things can stall. Answer quickly, even if it's just, "Working on it, will send tonight." (And yes, my video below is all about ghosting. Agents feel it too.)

Mistake 3: Making big purchases before closing

Do not buy a new truck. Do not finance a living room set. Do not open a new credit card because the store offered 20% off throw pillows.

Big changes to your finances before closing can cause problems with your loan. Ask your lender before you make any big money moves. Wait until after you have your keys. Then go pillow-crazy.

Mistake 4: Skipping the inspection

Even if the home looks perfect. Even if it's brand new. An inspection is your chance to find things you can't see, like a roof issue or an electrical surprise. It's one of the best investments in the whole process.

Mistake 5: Doing it alone

This one is the scariest, in my opinion. Buying a home involves contracts, deadlines, negotiations and a lot of paperwork. Having an agent who's on your side and answers the phone makes it a lot less spooky.

Bonus: Waiting for the "perfect" time

There's no perfect time. There's only the right time for you. If you're curious whether that's now, let's talk it through. No pressure, just honest information.

My Halloween video (agent humor)

Because nothing says Halloween like a Realtor asking, "Why do you make me worry so?"

Watch on Instagram: "Why do you make me worry so?" (agent humor)

Video not loading? Watch it on Instagram here.

The bottom line

Home buying doesn't have to be scary. Know your budget, stay in touch, hold off on big purchases, get the inspection, and bring a guide. I'll bring the candy corn. (I know. Controversial.)

Easy question: candy corn, yes or no? This is the most important question I'll ask all week.

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Free First-Time Homebuyer Webinar

Thinking about buying your first home in the Phoenix metro or Pinal County? I put together a free, calm, 15-minute webinar that walks you through the whole process in plain English: budgets, pre-approval, builder incentives, offers, inspections and closing. No pressure, no sales pitch.

• Watch the webinar: lovingazhomes.com/first-time-buyers
• Prefer YouTube? Watch it on YouTube
• Grab my free buyer guide: lovingazhomes.com/first-time-buyers

Questions? Call or text me at 480-572-2159.

Tina Marie Miller, REALTOR® | Loving AZ Homes | DeLex Realty. Real estate services provided through DeLex Realty. Equal Housing Opportunity.