Buying your first home is exciting.

It's also one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make.

After helping first-time buyers throughout St. Louis for more than a decade, I've noticed many of the same mistakes come up repeatedly.

Here are some of the biggest ones.

1. Waiting for the "perfect" market.

There will always be uncertainty. Interest rates change. Inventory changes. Life changes. Most successful buyers focus on personal readiness rather than perfect timing.

2. Looking at homes before getting pre-approved.

This creates unrealistic expectations and often leads to disappointment.

3. Focusing only on the mortgage payment.

Buyers should also consider taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance.

4. Draining savings for the down payment.

Homeownership comes with unexpected expenses.

5. Ignoring commute patterns.

What looks convenient on a map may feel very different during rush hour.

6. Falling in love with a home before understanding the numbers.
7. Skipping research on neighborhoods.
8. Assuming online value estimates are always accurate.
9. Making decisions based entirely on cosmetic features.
10. Underestimating closing costs.
11. Looking at too many homes.
12. Looking at too few homes.
13. Assuming every inspection issue is a deal-breaker.
14. Not asking enough questions.
15. Making major purchases before closing.
16. Changing jobs during the loan process.
17. Trying to do everything alone.

One thing I tell first-time buyers all the time is this:

You don't have to know everything.

That's my job.

The right guidance can save you time, stress, and money throughout the process.

— Krista Hartmann