What to do:<\/strong>\u00a0Go through your contract with a fine-toothed comb. If the item that you expected to be there isn\u2019t, ask about it\u2014and get it added in writing.<\/p>\n

6. Don\u2019t \u2026 skip the inspection.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Even if the home looks like it\u2019s in winning shape, it would be foolish to skip a thorough once-over by a professional. \u201cPeople tend to think that the inspection and the appraisal are the same thing,\u201d Derrick says. \u201cThey\u2019re not.\u201d An inspector is there to spot the things you don\u2019t know to look for, like if the chimney is in great shape or whether those little cracks in the foundation are a big deal. He\u2019ll look for signs of water damage and check the insulation in the attic. If there are conditions that will need repair, you may be able to negotiate with the seller to drop the price. In other words, the inspection is worth every penny.<\/p>\n

What to do:<\/strong>\u00a0Get recommendations from your realtor or friends who\u2019ve bought in the area, and have a professional inspection done before you close on the house.<\/p>\n

7. Don\u2019t \u2026 think a brand-new home entitles you to brand-new everything.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cA lot of people buy this nice house, and then look at the ratty car sitting in the driveway and think, \u2018We better buy a new car,\u2019\u201d Derrick says. Or you suddenly have a formal living room but no formal living room furniture\u2014so you buy some! It\u2019s a mistake to feel like you suddenly have to upgrade all of your stuff to match the shiny new home. \u201cYou don\u2019t want to get yourself into a pile of credit card debt just so you can keep up with the house,\u201d Derrick says.<\/p>\n

What to do:<\/strong>\u00a0Live in your house for a while, so you can figure out what you really need. Then save up for it!<\/p>\n

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