What To Look For—and Ignore—When Buying a Home

Home shopping...in a word – overwhelming. Yet at the same time, fun and exciting, all at the same time. 

With the help of an experienced team – including a mortgage banker and a real estate agent – you can feel more confident navigating the mortgage and homebuying process. They’ll guide you every step of the way, making the journey feel a lot less stressful.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help, too. Let’s walk through what to focus on when shopping for a home, and what you can probably overlook during your search. 

What to Pay Attention To 

When you first meet with your mortgage banker, they’ll help determine what you qualify for through a pre-qualificationAn early estimate of how much you might be able to borrow from a lender.pre-qualificationAn early estimate of how much you might be able to borrow from a lender. or pre-approvalA validation of exactly how much of a loan for which you are approved.pre-approvalA validation of exactly how much of a loan for which you are approved.. This gives you a clear idea of your price range, so you know what you can comfortably afford before you even start browsing listings. 

It’s also useful information for your real estate agent, who can narrow down homes that fit both your wish list and your budget. 

Your mortgage banker should also walk you through the entire loan process, answering your questions and helping reduce any lingering anxiety you might have about financing a home. 

There are many, many different loan options, each with its own guidelines and requirements. Your mortgage banker will help you understand which loans you qualify for, and which ones are best suited to your situation. 

Next, your real estate agent will work with you to define your home goals. 

How many bedrooms do you need? Is a large yard a must-have? Do you prefer hardwood floors over carpet? It’s helpful to identify your needs versus your wants. Maybe three bedrooms is non-negotiable, but you’re open to fewer bathrooms. 

Ask yourself: 

• Are there visible issues with the roof? 

• How old are the appliances? 

• Are there strange odors, stains, or signs of patchwork repairs? 

These details can hint at larger maintenance or structural problems that may cost you down the line.

Additional Homebuying Tips for First-Time Buyers 

If you're buying your first home, it’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Here are a few tips to help keep things on track: 

• Stick to your budget. It’s tempting to look at homes that are just outside your range, but staying within budget will help you feel financially secure long term. 

• Plan ahead. Think about how your life might change in the next few years. Will this home still meet your needs? 

• Consider total monthly costs. Don’t forget to factor in things like homeowners insurance, property taxes, HOA fees, and utilities when calculating your monthly payment. 

The more informed you are from the start, the smoother your experience will be. We guarantee it. 

What to Look for During a Home Tour 

Beyond the fun stuff – like the size of the kitchen or the color of the walls – there are a few practical things to keep in mind during a showing: 

• Major systems: Ask about the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. Are they working efficiently? When were they last updated? 

• Foundation and structure: Look for signs of cracks, moisture, or uneven flooring. 

• Neighborhood: What’s the traffic like? How long is the commute? Are schools, parks, and grocery stores nearby? 

• Lighting and layout: Is there good natural light? Does the home’s layout suit your lifestyle? 

These elements equally affect both your comfort and your wallet, so keep your eyes open and ask your real estate agent any and all questions. 

Don't Skip the Home Inspection 

Even if a home looks move-in ready, consider scheduling a professional home inspection before finalizing your purchase. Inspectors are trained to uncover hidden issues, such as: 

• Structural concerns 

• Pest infestations 

• Plumbing or electrical problems 

• Roof or insulation damage 

A home inspection offers peace of mind and may give you leverage to request repairs or even negotiate a better price. 

4 Things to Look Past... 

While it’s smart to be cautious about so much in this world, some things just aren’t worth stressing over. Don’t let these cosmetic or temporary features get in the way of a great home: 

1. Odd Wallpaper or Paint Colors 

Move-in ready is nice, but sometimes the best homes just need a little updating. Wallpaper can be removed, and paint is one of the easiest and most affordable changes you can make.  Even if it’s hard to see past a particularly brazen bird-covered wallpaper or clashing colors, try to focus on the home’s layout, space, and structure.  

2. Dirty or Worn Carpet 

A carpet that’s stained or worn down might seem off-putting, and yes, you may have a point, but it’s also one of the easiest fixes. 

New carpet, or even upgraded flooring, can be added before you move in or negotiated as part of your offer. If the rest of the home checks all your boxes, don’t let the flooring of all things keep your home dreams grounded.  

3. A Room Used for Something Else 

Just because a room is currently being used as a walk-in closet, gym, office, or reading nook doesn’t mean it can’t serve your needs. Try to picture your furniture and lifestyle in the space instead. 

Would your guest bed fit? Is there a closet? A little imagination goes a long way in helping you see a home’s full potential. 

4. The Seller's Things 

Not all sellers stage their homes for showings. Clutter, decor, or furniture that isn’t your style can make it hard to visualize yourself living there but try to look past it, if you can.  

Once the home is yours and filled with your own belongings, it will feel completely different. Focus on the bones of the home, not the current owner’s taste in decor. 

Focus on What Matters Most 

The homebuying journey is such an exciting chapter, but we’re well aware that it can also come with questions and uncertainty. That’s why surrounding yourself with the right team – your mortgage banker, your real estate agent, and trusted advisors – can make all the difference. 

Expert Tip

Remain focused on what truly matters: your must-haves, your budget, and your long-term goals.

Don’t let temporary or cosmetic details distract you from a house that could become your dream home. With the right guidance and a little imagination, the place you fall in love with can quickly become home sweet home.