The Top 3 Regrets First-time Buyers Have
1. Total Cost of Ownership (Not Just the Mortgage)
  • Many buyers focus only on their monthly mortgage payment and forget about property taxes, insurance, HOA dues, utilities, maintenance, and repair costs.
  • This often leads to “payment shock” when the first full month of bills arrives.
2. Neighborhood & Lifestyle Fit
  • They fall in love with the house but don’t fully vet the neighborhood—commute times, noise, school ratings, future development plans, or even how walkable it is.
  • After moving in, they realize the community doesn’t match their lifestyle.
3. Room to Grow / Resale Value
  • Buyers sometimes choose the “perfect starter home” without considering future needs (kids, pets, home office, multi-generational living).
  • They also regret not thinking about resale factors—like floorplan appeal, upgrades, or location—that will impact their ability to sell down the road.
👉 In short: money, lifestyle, and future planning are the big 3 blind spots.
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Mike Elledge
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The Top 3 Regrets First-time Buyers Have
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