Mistake #1: Not knowing how much they can afford before they make an offer.

The easiest way to avoid this mistake is to get pre-approved for a mortgage by a lender so you know in advance exactly how much you can afford.

Most pre-approvals are free and it will give you a basis to make a more informed purchasing decision when you find the house you like.

Mistake #2: Not realizing that the wrong mortgage can cost thousands in needless interest and taxes.

Check with your financial planner and accountant before you make your final decision on which mortgage you are going to choose.

They will be able to tell you what the long-term effects will be on your income, your taxes and the equity you build in your home over time.

With some advance planning and a simple strategy, they can cut the amount of interest they pay dramatically and own their homes sooner.

Mistake #3: Not realizing in advance who the real estate sales person represents.

Most people think that the agent they are working with is working for them. But unless they are working as your buyer representative, they represent the seller.

There are different types of agency relationships you can have with a Realtor, make sure that you are clear on your options.

Mistake #4: Not discovering hidden defects before they buy a home.

One of the most expensive mistakes is also one of the easiest to avoid, by having a professional pre-purchase home inspection.

Don’t get stuck with a money pit.

The cost of a professional home inspection is usually a few hundred dollars, but the peace of mind it can give you and the expense you can avoid needlessly is in the thousands of dollars.

Mistake #5: Not knowing how much their credit can affect their ability to buy or refinance a home.

Before you buy a home, many of the clouds on your credit history can be cleared up or even eliminated.

Your mortgage professional can help you review and prepare your credit file in advance.