7 Things First-Time Home Buyers Wish They Knew (Before They Started Looking)

Buying a Home
Written By Amanda Nolen

Ranch style home for first-time home buyers.

7 Big Lessons

Buying your first home is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. Most first-time buyers tell me they wish they’d understood a few things before they jumped in. These insights can save you stress, time, and even money… and help you start your home search with clarity and confidence.

Let’s walk through the seven big lessons first-time buyers often learn the hard way — so you don’t have to.

1. Pre-Approval Should Be Your First Step — Not the Last

Before you fall in love with a home, you need to know what you can comfortably afford.

A pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious, gives you a budget to work with, and helps avoid surprises later.

2. Your “Needs” vs. “Nice-to-Haves” Matter More Than Pinterest

It’s easy to get swept up in trends — but real life requires intention.

Think about lifestyle: commute, schools, yard size, storage, floor plan.

Homes can be updated. Locations can’t.

3. You Don’t Need 20% Down (Really!)

Many first-time buyers are surprised to learn you can purchase with:

  • 3–5% down

  • FHA loans

  • Special programs for teachers, medical workers, and more

There are options — and we’ll explore them together.

4. Hidden Costs Are Real, But Manageable

Think beyond the down payment:

  • Earnest Money Deposit

  • Inspections

  • Appraisal

  • Closing costs

  • Moving expenses

Knowing these upfront helps you plan (and avoid stress).

5. The Perfect Home Rarely Exists

But the right home does.

Most buyers end up making a few small compromises — and later tell me they didn’t matter nearly as much as they thought. The right agent can help you with a vision to make the right home the perfect home for you.

6. A Good Agent Makes Everything Less Stressful

You should feel supported, informed, and understood.
A great agent is:

  • An educator

  • A strategist

  • A negotiator

  • A steady guide through every decision

You don’t have to figure this out alone.

7. It’s Normal to Feel Emotional (This Is a Big Life Moment!)

Buying a home is exciting, nerve-wracking, hopeful, and meaningful.

Give yourself grace — and trust that with the right support, you’ll land exactly where you need to be.

Key Takeaways

  • Get pre-approved early.

  • Focus on lifestyle, not trends.

  • Know your financing options.

  • Expect some upfront costs.

  • No home is perfect — but the right one is out there.

  • Don’t go it alone.

  • Emotions are part of the journey.

Ready to Start Your Home Journey?

I’d love to guide you.

→ Contact me for a buyer consultation

→ Subscribe to the Home in Mid Michigan newsletter

→ Learn more about buying a home

Amanda Nolen
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