Dear First Home Buyer; Here's how to avoid costly mistakes 

Avoiding First Home Buyer Mistakes: Smart Moves for a Smooth First Purchase

Buying your first home is exciting – but let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming. With advice flying in from every direction (and not all of it helpful), it’s easy to get caught up in the emotion and make decisions you might regret.

After helping dozens of first-time buyers step confidently into the property market, here’s what I can tell you: success comes down to preparation, perspective, and the right team in your corner.

Common First Home Buyer Mistakes – And How to Avoid Them

1. Falling in love too fast
That charming fixer-upper might tug at your heartstrings, but don’t forget to check under the hood. Always request a building and pest inspection and look at what similar properties in the area have sold for – not just what they’re asking.

2. Forgetting the hidden costs
It’s not just your deposit. There’s stamp duty (although not in QLD for eligible first-home buyers as of May 2025 – yay!), legal fees, inspections, mortgage insurance, and moving costs. Know your full financial picture before you fall head over heels for a property.

3. Skipping pre-approval
Don’t start house hunting until you’ve spoken to a mortgage broker and have pre-approval in place. It’s your buying passport and can give you a competitive edge, especially in fast-moving markets or at auction. If you don't have one, reach out, I can introduce you to some experts.

4. Ignoring the suburbs next door
You might have your heart set on Burleigh or New Farm – but there are often better-value properties just one or two suburbs away with strong growth potential. Think long-term lifestyle and investment benefits.

5. Going it alone
Would you represent yourself in court? Or diagnose your own medical condition? Probably not. Yet many first-home buyers try to navigate the most expensive decision of their life without professional support.

A good Buyer’s Agent (like me!) can save you time, stress, and money. I’ll guide you from suburb insights to auction day strategy, right through to negotiating the deal and handing over the keys.

Here is some helpful hints for First Home Buyers

• Understand your “must-haves” vs. “nice-to-haves.” This helps you stay focused and avoid decision fatigue.

• Ask questions. No question is too silly. This is new territory – it’s okay not to know.

• Be auction-aware. Know the rules, your limit, and don’t let the crowd rattle you.

• Use the market data. Look at what’s actually selling – not just what’s listed online.

• Think long-term. This is your first home, not your forever home. Get into the market, and grow from there.

Bonus Tip: Get My Free First Home Buyer Guide

If you're feeling unsure where to start, I’ve created a clear, no-fluff guide that answers the most common questions I get. From finance tips to inspection checklists – it’s packed with useful advice, message me on 0427749990 or [email protected] and I'll send you my Clarity Guide designed for First Home Buyers.

Final thought?

Buying your first home should feel exciting – not terrifying. With the right plan and support, it can be a smooth, empowering process. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.