🚫 The 10 Biggest Buyer Mistakes in Today’s Market (plus a bonus tip)
1. Paying Your Agent
Buyers—brace yourselves—you may now be expected to pay your own agent.
I know, I know… “Wait, isn’t that the seller’s job?”
Well, it was customary in the past, but it was never actually the seller’s job. Some sellers still do offer this concession, but relying on that assumption in 2025…That’s mistake #1.
Welcome to the new normal.
🗣️FYI – this is important (Yes, I'm Gonna Editorialize)
If you’re a seller in Southern California and your home is listed under $700,000, chances are you’re selling to a first-time buyer. And those folks? They are stretched thin. Down payments. Closing costs. Inspections. Life savings.
Remember when you were buying your first home? If it was more than 15 years ago, it’s not even remotely comparable to what first time buyers face now in adjusted earnings and home sale prices.
Meanwhile, if you were fortunate enough to have purchased your home 10, 15, or 20 years ago… you've likely got equity pouring out of your ears.
Some could say, “that’s just the way the cookie crumbles.“ But if you have grown children, friends, or loved ones who are trying to buy their first home right now, do you really want that to be the attitude from sellers when they are better equipped to shoulder that fee from the proceeds of the sale?
So—should you consider covering the buyer's agent commission to help the deal close?
🤷♀️ I’ll let you marinate on that. (but, I think you can guess my opinion.) 😉
2. Skipping Pre-Approval
Shopping for homes without knowing what you can afford is like showing up to a poker game with no chips.
A pre-approval will bring a home purchase into the realm of reality because it will be based on what you can actually afford.
It will also allow your agent to begin searching for homes that match that criteria.
💡 Pro tip: A pre-approval doesn’t just give you a price range—it shows sellers you're serious.
3. . Forgetting About Closing Costs
It’s not just about the down payment.
Plan to budget 2–5% of the purchase price for closing costs like escrow, inspections, title insurance, and more (remember the buyer’s agent fee I mentioned earlier…).
Oh, and MOVING… yeah, that’s gonna cost you something; even if it’s a U-Haul, pizza and beer for your buddies 😉
4. . Waiving the Inspection
Unless you’re a contractor or buying a total fixer, skipping the inspection is a gamble.
Even “turnkey” homes can hide big surprises behind walls and under floors.
5. Ignoring the Neighborhood Vibe
Falling in love with a beautiful home can make you blind to other things that could be a big issue in the future.
That being said, that there are three things in real estate that matter most:1. Location
2. Location
3. LOCATION!
Remember: You can change the paint. You can’t change the neighborhood.
6. Making Big Purchases After Opening Escrow
🚫 No new credit cards. 🚫 No car leases. 🚫 No designer furniture.
Lenders will re-check everything before closing. Don’t give them a reason to hit pause.
7. Writing Lowball Offers in a Hot Market
Everybody loves a deal—but offering under asking on a popular home can get you laughed off the table.
Be strategic, shop for homes that are within your budget at full price, maybe even over asking price (plus all those other costs mentioned on tip #3) Otherwise you are just wasting your time.
8. Thinking Only Short-Term
Think like a real estate investor. Yes, you are gonna live in it, but it is also one of the single most reliable and potentially lucrative investments you may ever make.
If you are on the younger side, look at this as a possible 2 year investment that you might sell or leverage. Why? Here are just a few reasons:
-
Sell to move into a neighborhood that is more desirable.
-
Sell to move to a bigger (or nicer ) home
-
Pull equity to purchase your next home and use this as a rental
If you are on the more mature side, you may be looking at finding your forever home for retirement. How can you make sure this move is the right one?
Go here to find out: https://corsinorealestate.com/retire-and-relocate-guide
9. Overlooking Buyer Assistance Programs
There are grants, credits, and first-time buyer perks that could save you thousands.
Don’t assume you don’t qualify—ask. Who should you ask? A qualified mortgage broker is a great place to start! How to find a great mortgage broker? Ask your favorite Realtor!
10. Expecting a Smooth Ride
Even the most “perfect” transaction can hit bumps—delays, low appraisals, flaky sellers.
Having the right guide on your side makes all the difference.
Bonus Tip: Trying to DIY the Process
Look, I love a good HGTV binge, too. But this market isn’t 2012.
A great agent = your deal-saver, contract ninja, and local property whisperer.
(Hint: I know one. 😉)
🧭 Bottom Line:
The market has evolved—but the need for smart, strategic guidance hasn't.
Whether you're buying in Long Beach, Orange County, or anywhere in Southern California, there’s no need to go it alone. I’m here to help you dodge the landmines and find the right fit—without the drama.
📞 Let’s Make Your Move a Smart One
🔍 Want the inside scoop on neighborhoods, pricing strategy, or how to navigate buyer agent fees like a pro?
Let’s talk.
📥 Schedule a strategy session: scheduler.zoom.us/kelly-corsino
📞 Call or text me directly: 949-229-0019
🌐 Explore more resources at: CorsinoRealEstate.com
