Buying your first home is exciting—but it also comes with a steep learning curve. The process is filled with decisions that can have long-term consequences, especially if you're not prepared. In this guide, we’ll walk through the most common first time home buyer mistakes and how you can avoid them—so you feel confident and equipped every step of the way.
Whether you're shopping in Austin, Seguin, New Braunfels, or anywhere in between, these tips will help you navigate the journey wisely.
One of the biggest first time home buyer expenses in Texas is realizing that the price tag on Zillow doesn’t tell the whole story.
Having a home maintenance budget and understanding these expenses early will help you avoid being house-poor.
It’s tempting to start browsing homes right away, but one of the most important first time home buyer tips is to get pre-approved before you shop.
Pre-approval gives you:
Skipping this step can lead to disappointment—or worse, losing out on the perfect property because your financing isn't in order.
Your down payment isn’t the only money you’ll need at the closing table. Closing costs can range from 2%–5% of the home’s purchase price, and include:
Use a first time home buyer checklist Texas to track what you’ll need to save—so there are no surprises when you’re ready to close.
It’s easy to fall in love with the look of a home—but is it right for your lifestyle, budget, and maintenance comfort level?
Move-in ready homes in Central Texas offer a great solution: modern finishes, low maintenance, and no renovation headaches. They’re especially smart for families and first-timers who want simplicity and predictability.
The home might be perfect—but what about the area? One of the most critical pieces of first time home buyer advice is to research where you’re buying, not just what.
Central Texas has fast-growing neighborhoods with great schools, family-friendly amenities, and strong long-term investment potential. Make sure you explore more than just the photos.
Avoiding first time home buyer mistakes is possible when you approach the process with preparation and clarity.
At COAH Homes, we believe buying your first home shouldn’t be overwhelming. That’s why we build move-in ready homes designed for real life—so you can move forward confidently, with fewer unknowns.
Buying your first home is a huge milestone—but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. By learning the common mistakes first time home buyers make, and preparing wisely, you’ll set yourself up for success.
Ready to take the next step? Let COAH Homes help you find a move-in ready home that’s perfect for your needs, timeline, and budget.