🏡5 Painful Mistakes Buyers Do That Cost Them Big

Buying a home is one of life’s biggest moments. It’s exciting, emotional, and—let’s be honest—a little stressful too. And while the process is filled with ups and downs, there are some common mistakes that can quietly cost buyers thousands of dollars.

If you’re shopping for a home in Londonderry or exploring Southern NH houses for sale, you’ll want to avoid the things buyers do that cost them money. These missteps are easy to make but can be tough (and expensive) to fix.

Let’s walk through the top five mistakes so you can shop smart, save cash, and find a home you love—without the regret.

1. Skipping the Pre-Approval – A Risky First Step

One of the top things buyers do that cost them money is skipping pre-approval.

It might seem like just extra paperwork, but it’s a game-changer. Pre-approval tells you exactly how much you can afford. It also helps you move fast when you find the one.

Here’s why skipping it hurts:

• You might fall in love with a house you can’t afford.

• Sellers may not take your offer seriously.

• You could miss out on low-rate mortgage programs.

Buyers in Londonderry and Southern NH face real competition. If you’re not pre-approved, another buyer will likely beat you to it.

2. Not Working with a Local REALTOR® – Big Mistake, Bigger Cost

This one is huge. Many buyers think browsing Zillow or doing it all themselves will save money.

In reality, not working with a local REALTOR® is one of the sneakiest things buyers do that cost them money.

Here’s what you miss without a pro on your side:

• Local market insight (hello, hidden gems!)

• Smart negotiation skills that can save you thousands

• Help spotting red flags before you’re stuck

The best part? As a buyer, your agent’s services are usually free. Sellers pay the commission!

So if you're eyeing Londonderry houses for sale or searching across Southern NH, a local expert is your secret weapon.

3. Skipping the Home Inspection – Don’t Do It!

Sometimes buyers are tempted to skip the home inspection. Maybe they’re trying to win in a bidding war. Or they think the house looks perfect.

Please don’t skip it.

This is one of the riskiest things buyers do that cost them money down the road.

Here’s what can go wrong:

• Hidden water damage

• Costly electrical issues

• Roof or foundation problems

A home might look fine on the outside but hide expensive problems inside. Inspections can cost a few hundred dollars. But they can save you thousands in surprise repairs.

In areas like Londonderry and Southern NH, where older homes are common, an inspection is a smart must-do.

4. Letting Emotions Take Over – The Money Pit Trap

Buying a home is emotional—no doubt about it. You walk in, fall in love, and start planning where the couch goes.

But making decisions with your heart instead of your head? That’s one of the most expensive things buyers do that cost them money.

Emotions can cause you to:

• Overbid on a house you can’t afford

• Overlook serious problems during showings

• Ignore your original budget or needs

It’s easy to get caught up in the “perfect home” feeling. That’s why it helps to have a REALTOR® by your side who can bring you back to earth—gently.

The key is balance. Love your future home—but be smart about it.

5. Not Understanding the Full Costs of Buying

A lot of buyers focus on just the price of the house. But that’s only part of the picture.

One of the most common things buyers do that cost them money is not budgeting for the extras.

Here’s what else you need to plan for:

• Closing costs (usually 2–5% of the home price)

• Property taxes and homeowners insurance

• Repairs, updates, and moving expenses

Some buyers also forget about future expenses like heating, yard maintenance, or homeowners’ association fees.

If you're eyeing Southern NH houses for sale, especially older or rural homes, some of these costs can really add up. Having a clear budget helps you avoid surprises.

Bonus Mistake: Waiting Too Long to Act

We’ve seen it too many times: a buyer finds the perfect home, waits a day too long, and loses it.

The market moves fast—especially with Londonderry houses for sale and hot neighborhoods in Southern NH.

If you're pre-approved, have your REALTOR®, and know your budget—be ready to move when it feels right.

Waiting too long can cost you your dream home. Or push you into a bidding war with more buyers. Either way, it ends up costing you more.

Tips to Avoid These Costly Mistakes

Now that you know the top things buyers do that cost them money, here’s how to avoid them:

✅ Get pre-approved before you start shopping.
It’s fast, simple, and makes your offer stronger.

✅ Work with a REALTOR® who knows the local market.
They’ll guide you, protect your interests, and help you save.

✅ Always get a home inspection.
Even if the house looks perfect, double-check everything.

✅ Stick to your budget and use your head.
Your dream home shouldn’t come with a nightmare price tag.

✅ Know the real costs of homeownership.
Plan for the down payment, closing costs, and future expenses.

Why It’s Even More Important in South Hudson and Southern NH

The housing market in Londonderry and across Southern NH is still competitive. That means homes move fast—and prices are strong.

But it also means buyers need to be sharp.

These areas have a mix of older homes, fixer-uppers, and newer builds. You’ll find cozy neighborhoods, rural properties, and even multi-family options.

A local REALTOR® will help you spot good deals, understand value, and avoid buying a money pit. They know which listings are fairly priced and which ones come with headaches.

If you’re looking at Londonderry houses for sale, you’re in one of the most in-demand areas of Southern New Hampshire. Don’t lose out—or spend more than you need to—just because you missed the fine print.

Work With Someone Who Knows the Market (and Has Your Back)

As a REALTOR® working right here in Southern NH, I’ve seen it all. I’ve watched buyers lose out on great homes because they didn’t have help. I’ve also helped smart buyers avoid costly mistakes—and find homes they truly love.

When you have a trusted agent by your side, everything changes:

• You make confident choices.

• You understand what you’re signing.

• You know when to walk away—and when to act fast.

Be a Smart Buyer, Not a Sorry One

Buying a home should be exciting, not filled with regret.

So many of the things buyers do that cost them money are easy to avoid. It just takes a little planning, the right mindset, and a REALTOR® who has your back.

You deserve a smooth home-buying journey. One where you feel proud of the decision you made—and the home you bought.

If you’re getting ready to look at Londonderry houses for sale or explore the Southern NH real estate market, let’s connect. I’d love to guide you through every step—stress-free, mistake-free, and money-smart.

Ready to Start House Hunting the Smart Way?

Let’s make sure you’re fully prepared, pre-approved, and protected through the whole journey. Whether you’re buying your first home or your forever home, I’m here to help you avoid the things buyers do that cost them money—and find a place that feels just right.

If you need more information on things buyers do that cost them money, or are ready to sell your house give us a call at (603) 883-8840. You can also sign up for your dream home search or reach out to Our Agents for more information. We’d love to help you with your real estate needs.