Looking back, there are a few things I wish someone had told me before I started the process. So, whether you're daydreaming about homeownership or knee-deep in listings, here's what I've learned from experience - and what might just save you time, stress, and maybe even a little money.
1. It's Not Just About the House - It's About the Lifestyle
When I first started looking for my home, I focused solely on the property - the kitchen, the floors, the backyard. What I didn't consider enough was how the neighbourhood would shape my everyday life.
Topics like commute time, grocery stores, trails, or even how walkable the area is can dramatically impact how you feel in your new home. The truth? You're not just buying a home. You're buying the lifestyle that comes with it.
Tip: Before making an offer, spend a day in the area. Visit at different times - morning rush hour, weekend afternoons, after dark. Your future self will thank you.
2. Pre-Approval Isn't Just a Formality
One of the best pieces of advice I can give first-time buyers: get pre-approved before you fall in love with a house.
Not only does it show sellers you're serious, it also gives you a realistic budget to work with which helps you focus your search and avoid heartbreak later.
Here is the part no one tells you: pre-approval isn't just about numbers. It's about strategy. Lenders look at credit scores, debt ratios, income, and employment stability. The stronger your financial picture, the better your rate and the smoother your purchase.
3. Inspections Are Worth Every Penny
When you're budgeting, it can be tempting to skip or rush through the home inspection. Don't.
A qualified home inspector can uncover issues that even the most beautiful listing photos can't reveal - from outdated wiring to hidden water damage. While no home is perfect, knowing what you're walking into gives you leverage for negotiation if warranted (and peace of mind).
Think of an inspection as a crash course in your home's personality - quirks and all.
4. Budget Beyond the Purchase Price
I often see first time homebuyers budget for their mortgage, down payment, and closing costs. What they don't ully prepare for are the after costs.
Points like:
- Utility deposits and setup fees
- Furniture (somehow, you never have quite enough!)
- Lawn care or snow removal
- Maintenance surprises (because homes love surprises)
Rule of thumb: set aside 1-3% of your home's value annually for maintenance. It's not the glamorous part of homeownership, but it keeps everything running smoothly - and your stress level low. Trust me, your future seller self will thank you!
6. The Right Realtor Makes All the Difference
Here's something I wish more people knew: choosing a Realtor isn't just about who has the most listings. It's about trust, communication, and fit.
A great agent will educate you along the way, help you see potential in properties, negotiate with strategy, and keep the process moving smoothly. You will want someone who listens more than they talk and who genuinely has your best interests at heart.
It's a partnership - and when it's the right fit, it makes all the difference.
7. It's Okay Not to Know Everything
No one starts out as a home-buying expert. Questions are part of the process - and trust me, every seasoned homeowner once asked the same ones you're asking now.
From "What's a status certificate?" to "Why are there so many signatures?", it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed. The key is to surround yourself with professionals who guide, not pressure, you.
Purchasing a home is a learning curve, but it's one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever have.
8. The Joy Really Is in the Journey
There's something unforgettable about unlocking your first front door. That feeling of "this is mine. My hard work got me here" However I feel the real magic happens in the process leading up to it.
The search, the lessons learned, the late-night "what ifs". It all becomes part of your story. Looking back, the small moments ended up being just as meaningful as the big ones.
So, if you're just starting your home-buying journey, take a breath. Enjoy it. You're about to step into one of life's most exciting chapters.
If I could sum it all up into one sentence, it would be this: buying your first home isn't just a transaction - it's a transformation.
You learn, you grow, and you discover what "home" truly means to you.
When you're ready to start your own journey, We would love to help guide you through it, with patience, strategy and maybe even a few laughs along the way.
