3 Common Mistakes Buyers Make
And How to Avoid Them
Buying a home—whether it’s your first or your fifth—is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions you’ll make. Especially here in the Lakes Region, where charming cottages, historic farmhouses, and waterfront retreats all compete for attention, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement.
But even in this idyllic corner of New Hampshire, buyers can fall into some all-too-common traps. Below are three mistakes we see often—and how you can avoid them.
1. Falling in Love Too Fast
The mistake: A buyer walks into a home, falls for the kitchen or the view, and decides “this is the one” before digging deeper.
How to avoid it: Emotion plays a role—of course it does! But buying a home isn't just about how it makes you feel on a Saturday afternoon. It's about location, resale potential, inspection results, and your long-term needs. Fall in love, but take a beat. Ask questions, bring a flashlight to the basement, and compare it to other options on the market.
Pro tip: Create a short list of your non-negotiables before you start touring homes. Use it as a filter to keep your heart and head in balance.
2. Skipping Pre-Approval
The mistake: Touring homes and even making offers without a solid pre-approval in hand.
How to avoid it: In a competitive market—yes, even now with higher inventory—sellers want to know you’re serious. A pre-approval shows you’re ready and capable. It also helps you understand exactly what you can afford before you fall for something outside your budget.
Pro tip: Go one step further and get underwritten pre-approval. It can make your offer even stronger and may shorten the time between offer and closing.
3. Ignoring the Hidden Costs
The mistake: Focusing on the purchase price, but forgetting about the rest—closing costs, property taxes, insurance, home repairs, and seasonal maintenance (hello, snow blower).
How to avoid it: Work with a local agent (👋) who can help you estimate the full cost of ownership based on the type of property, location, and your plans for it. Whether you’re dreaming of a low-maintenance condo in Laconia or a camp-style retreat on Ossipee Lake, knowing the real numbers can help you plan smart—and stay happy.
Pro tip: Set aside 1–3% of the home’s value annually for maintenance and unexpected repairs. It’s not glamorous, but it’s wise.
Final Thought: Preparation = Power
The right agent (again, hi! 👋) will help you avoid these missteps and guide you toward decisions that align with your lifestyle, budget, and dreams. Our job is to help you move forward with confidence—not regrets.
Thinking of buying in the Lakes Region? Let’s chat. Whether you’re just getting started or have been browsing Zillow in your pajamas for months, we'd love to hear your story!