Buying a home is a big decision.

Here are five common mistakes to avoid…

1. Working without a real estate professional. A good agent will find homes, negotiate a deal, and handle legalities.
2. Getting hung up on a style. All shoppers set out with a dream home in mind, but if it isn’t there, be open minded.
3. Not thinking about resale value. Think about the resale potential. It’s not just a home, it’s a long-term investment.
4. Not jumping on a good find. Don’t overlook a gem assuming you’ll come across something better later.
5. Getting stuck on cosmetics. Learn to look past design choices to what really matters: space, structure and location.