6 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying My First Home | Avoid These First-Time Buyer Mistakes

by Alexa Peña

Buying your first home is exciting — but let’s be honest, it can also be overwhelming, confusing, and expensive if you don’t know what to expect.

I know this firsthand.

I started house hunting at 18 years old with zero guidance, and I learned a lot of lessons the hard way. From surprise costs to misunderstandings about representation, there were things no one explained to me — things I now make sure every first-time buyer knows before they ever write an offer.

That’s why I created this blog and video:
“6 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying My First Home | Avoid These First-Time Buyer Mistakes!”

Below is a value-driven breakdown of the six biggest lessons that can save you money, stress, and regret — whether you’re buying a resale home or thinking about building.

🚨 6 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying My First Home

These aren’t textbook tips — these are real-life lessons I now share with every client.

What To Know When Buying Your First Home | Landmark Blog

1️⃣ Closing Costs Are More Than Just a Down Payment

Most first-time buyers focus only on the down payment — but that’s not the full picture.

Closing costs can include:

Lender fees
Title and escrow fees
Appraisal and inspection costs
Prepaid taxes and insurance

Not planning for these expenses can catch buyers off guard at the closing table.

2️⃣ Escrow Fees Add Up Quickly

Escrow isn’t just paperwork — it’s a service, and it comes with costs.

Buyers are often surprised by:
✔️ Escrow service fees
✔️ Prepaid property taxes
✔️ Insurance reserves

Understanding escrow early helps you avoid last-minute stress.

3️⃣ Not All Realtors Work the Same Way

This one is huge.

Choosing the wrong agent can cost you:

Better negotiation opportunities
Clear explanations of the process
Protection during inspections and contracts

Your agent should educate you, advocate for you, and explain your rights — not rush you.

4️⃣ Professional Cleaning Isn’t Always Guaranteed

Many buyers assume the home will be professionally cleaned before move-in — but that’s not always the case.

Unless it’s negotiated in the contract, you may:

Walk into a home that’s not move-in ready
Have to clean before unpacking
Spend unexpected money after closing

Details matter, and expectations should always be clarified upfront.

5️⃣ You Have More Rights Than You Think

First-time buyers often don’t realize how much protection they have.

You typically have rights related to:
✔️ Inspections
✔️ Repair negotiations
✔️ Appraisals
✔️ Contract contingencies

Knowing your rights helps you make confident decisions instead of emotional ones.

6️⃣ Building a Home Comes With Its Own Surprises

New construction isn’t always easier or cheaper.

Buyers are often surprised by:

Upgrade costs
Lot premiums
Landscaping and fencing expenses
Timeline delays

Whether you’re buying resale or building, understanding the full picture saves money and frustration.

✅ What First-Time Buyers Should Do Differently

Successful first-time buyers:
✔️ Ask questions early
✔️ Plan for hidden costs
✔️ Choose representation carefully
✔️ Understand their rights
✔️ Prepare emotionally and financially

The goal isn’t just to buy a home — it’s to buy it the right way.