Buying your first home is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. Between navigating mortgages, inspections, and competing offers, many first-time buyers in Michigan find themselves making costly mistakes that could have been avoided with the right guidance.
At SunByrnes Properties & Construction, we work with buyers every day—from first-time homeowners in Metro Detroit suburbs to investors entering the market for the first time. Here are the five most common mistakes first-time homebuyers make in Michigan—and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Skipping Mortgage Pre-Approval
Many buyers begin house hunting before speaking with a lender, but this creates two major challenges:
- You don’t know your true budget.
- Sellers are far less likely to accept your offer without a pre-approval letter.
How to avoid it:
Speak with a trusted lender before starting your home search. A pre-approval gives you a realistic price range and strengthens your offer in Michigan’s competitive real estate market, especially in high-demand areas like Detroit, Royal Oak, and Rochester Hills.
Mistake 2: Underestimating the True Costs of Homeownership
Most first-time buyers focus on the purchase price and estimated monthly mortgage. But homeowners must also account for:
- Property taxes
- Homeowners insurance
- Maintenance and repairs
- Utilities
- HOA fees (in some communities)
How to avoid it:
Build a realistic budget that includes these recurring expenses. The SunByrnes team helps buyers review every expected cost so there are no surprises after closing.
Mistake 3: Choosing the Wrong House for Your Lifestyle
It’s easy to fall in love with a beautifully renovated kitchen or huge backyard. But first-time buyers sometimes choose a home that doesn’t fit their long-term needs, especially in areas where commute times, schools, and neighborhood growth vary widely.
How to avoid it:
Before touring homes, create a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.
Don’t compromise on fundamentals like:
- Location
- School district
- Commute time
- Number of bedrooms
- New build vs. older home
SunByrnes helps you evaluate each home based on long-term value, whether you’re deciding between resale homes or new construction.
Mistake 4: Skipping the Home Inspection
In fast-moving markets like Royal Oak and Rochester Hills, some buyers are tempted to waive the inspection to win the deal. But skipping the inspection can lead to:
- Unexpected repair costs
- Structural issues
- Roof or foundation problems
- Outdated electrical or plumbing
How to avoid it:
Always schedule a professional inspection, even for cash purchases. The cost is small compared to potential long-term issues.
Mistake 5: Overlooking New Construction Opportunities in Michigan
Many first-time buyers assume new construction is out of reach. In reality, new build homes and townhomes in Michigan can offer:
- Lower maintenance
- Energy efficiency
- Modern layouts
- Builder warranties
- Fewer upfront repairs
How to avoid it:
Work with a company like SunByrnes, which offers both real estate brokerage services and new home construction. This lets you compare:
- Older resale homes
- Newly renovated homes
- New build homes
- Custom construction options
You deserve to explore all your options before making such a big investment.
Bonus Tip: Work With the Right Real Estate & Construction Team
The Michigan market can be challenging for first-time homebuyers to navigate alone. Having the right professionals by your side makes the process smoother, faster, and far less stressful.
SunByrnes Properties & Construction supports buyers with:
- Trusted lender connections for fast pre-approval
- Guidance on resale vs. new construction
- Expert negotiation and offer strategies
- Inspection coordination
- Access to our First-Time Homeowner Checklist
- Support in Detroit, Royal Oak, Sterling Heights, and surrounding Metro Detroit areas
Buying your first home in Michigan should be exciting—not stressful. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can set yourself up for success and enjoy the process with confidence.
If you’re ready to take the leap, contact SunByrnes Properties & Construction today. Whether you’re buying in Detroit, Royal Oak, Sterling Heights, or beyond, we’ll help you find the right home and make the journey as smooth as possible.
Contact us today to start the conversation.
Looking for more tips and resources? Explore our other blog posts on multifamily investments and property management.
- Modern Living in Metro Detroit: Trends in Luxury Townhomes and Custom Builds A great read for first-time buyers curious about modern design features, new-build advantages, and what today’s Michigan buyers are prioritizing.
- Creating Stunning Properties With SunByrnes See how SunByrnes approaches construction and craftsmanship, helpful if you’re considering a new-build home instead of a resale.
- What Buyers Need to Know About Building vs Buying a Home A must-read for anyone unsure whether a newly constructed home or an existing home is the right choice.
- The Benefits of Buying a Newly Constructed Home Ideal for first-time buyers exploring low-maintenance living, modern layouts, and long-term value in Michigan new builds.
- How SunByrnes Residential Brokerage Services Help Homeowners (And Property Owners!) Learn how SunByrnes guides buyers through financing, offers, inspections, and the entire homebuying process.
- The Ultimate Michigan First-Time Homeowner Checklist A step-by-step guide that pairs perfectly with this blog, ideal for organizing your home search and avoiding common mistakes.
