Everyone understands that buying a home is a big decision. It is one of the largest financial decisions you may ever make. You will spend a considerable amount of time in your home and it will be your happy place. Make sure you avoid some of the common buying mistakes when buying your new Pittsburgh home.

1. Buying a home without researching the area.

   Have you done your homework to know where you want to live? Explore the areas of interest for their economy, parks, school districts, and crime rates. You can look at www.niche.com for resource links to local areas and school districts. Don’t overlook the school district even if you don’t have children in school. It can be important for appreciation and resale.

2. Buying a home that doesn’t fit your lifestyle.

   Think of the things you like to do. Do you need a big yard for entertaining friends and family? Do you dread yard work and want a small lot or perhaps a townhome community where the work is done for you? Are you planning on starting a family sooner than later? There are many factors that go into deciding what that perfect home will look like for you.

3. Buying a home you can’t afford.

   This sounds like a common-sense decision, but it does happen. You need to look at more than the asking price when deciding whether you can afford the home. Consider utility costs, homeowner association dues, taxes, insurance and regular maintenance of the property. Working with a reputable agent and mortgage broker can help navigate these decisions with you.

4. Buying a home without doing your homework.

   Don’t waive your right to inspections unless you are an expert in the home construction field. It may not be that sellers are trying to hide things from the buyers when completing their disclosures, but sometimes they just don’t know there is an issue. You want to complete the home inspections to know if there are any large ticket items that will need repaired or replaced as well as any safety issues that should be addressed.

5. Not working with a Realtor®.

   You may have driven by a For Sale by Owner that looks appealing and contacted the seller directly. Did you know that most For Sale by Owners will work with local agents? Or, you may feel that working with the listing agent will save you money. That is not true. The listing agent is working on behalf of the seller, trying to get them the most money possible for their home. Buyers can hire a real estate agent to work on their behalf & the seller pays the real estate commission. Work with someone who will put your best interest first!

My days are filled with working with buyers and sellers, learning the local market and educating myself on trends in our area. Allow me to use my expertise to help you make a decision that will be right for you now and in the near future.

I can help you avoid mistakes that can cost you money! Call me today if you are thinking of buying a home in the Pittsburgh area. You can reach me at 412-848-3907 or email me at kim.henderson@pittsburghmoves.com for more information.