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  "headline": "Avoiding Common Pitfalls as a First-Time Home Buyer",
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    "name": "Kelby Contreras - Realty ONE Group Evolution",
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  "articleBody": "Buying your first home is a big step, and it's easy to get caught up in the excitement. But steering clear of common mistakes can save you a lot of headaches and money down the road. One of the biggest blunders is treating preapproval as a final loan approval. It's a great estimate, but your loan isn't truly finalized until underwriting is complete. Another trap is focusing solely on the interest rate when comparing lenders; you really need to look at the total costs, including fees and other charges in the Loan Estimate. Many first-time buyers also overlook ongoing costs like property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and potential mortgage insurance, which can significantly impact your monthly budget. Don't assume every grant or assistance program is fully forgivable; some might have repayment or occupancy requirements you need to understand. During underwriting, avoid making new credit applications or large, unexplained deposits, as these can flag your application. And definitely compare your final Closing Disclosure with your initial Loan Estimate to catch any discrepancies. Keeping these points in mind will help you navigate the process with more confidence and prevent unexpected surprises. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don't treat preapproval as final loan approval. Avoid comparing only interest rates instead of total loan costs. Don't forget to budget for property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Never assume all grants are fully forgivable without understanding terms. Refrain from making new credit applications or large deposits during underwriting. Always compare your final Closing Disclosure with the initial Loan Estimate. For guidance through these potential pitfalls, consider reaching out to an experienced professional like Kelby Contreras at Realty ONE Group Evolution. Connect with Kelby Contreras for expert advice on your first home purchase.",
  "datePublished": "2026-10-01"
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