What NOT to Do When Buying a Home (Trust Us, You’ll Thank Us Later)

🚫 What NOT to Do When Buying a Home (Trust Us, You’ll Thank Us Later)
By the Gwaltney Group RE/MAX Results

Buying a home is exciting—it’s the start of a new chapter, a fresh adventure, and possibly your biggest financial decision to date. While there’s a lot of advice out there on what to do, sometimes the real magic lies in knowing what not to do. So, let’s break down a few common missteps that can turn your dream home journey into a detour you didn’t plan for.

❌ Don’t Open New Credit Lines

You might be tempted to finance a new couch, shiny appliance, or even a car to match your new driveway. But hold up! Opening new credit accounts or racking up balances can impact your credit score and debt-to-income ratio—two things your lender watches closely. Keep your financial profile steady until after closing day.

❌ Don’t Make Large Deposits Without Documentation

Did you sell a dirt bike on Facebook Marketplace and deposit $3,000 in cash? That’s great—unless you’re applying for a mortgage. Lenders need clear documentation of all large deposits to ensure the money is legit. Before moving funds around, chat with your lender. Transparency is key.

❌ Don’t Skip the Pre-Approval

Browsing homes without getting pre-approved is like going grocery shopping without knowing your budget. You might fall in love with a home outside your price range—or miss a great one thinking it’s a stretch. Pre-approval gives you buying power and makes your offer stronger in a competitive market.

❌ Don’t Change Jobs (If You Can Help It)

Switching careers or positions during the buying process can delay or even derail your loan. Stability is what lenders love. If a change is unavoidable, let your lender know ASAP so they can help navigate it properly.

❌ Don’t Waive the Home Inspection

Unless you really know what you’re doing (or love surprises like leaky basements and ancient wiring), always get a home inspection. It’s your opportunity to spot potential issues and negotiate repairs or price reductions. Think of it as a small price to avoid a costly headache later.

❌ Don’t Go Solo

Real estate isn’t a DIY project. You need a team that’s got your back, keeps your best interests at heart, and knows how to navigate the twists and turns of the market. That’s where the Gwaltney Group comes in. We’ll walk you through the process, dodge the landmines, and celebrate with you when the keys are in your hand.

Bottom Line:
Buying a home is thrilling, but it’s also complex. Knowing what not to do can be just as important as checking off your to-dos. Want to make your buying experience smooth, strategic, and even a little fun? Let’s talk.

🏡 Ready to buy smart? Reach out to the Gwaltney Group RE/MAX Results—where we turn real estate dreams into addresses.