Whether you're looking to buy in Port Moody, Coquitlam, or Port Coquitlam, here are some of the biggest missteps to steer clear of when navigating the home buying process in the Tri-Cities:
1. Insufficient Financial Preparation
One of the most common mistakes we see is not saving enough for a down payment—or forgetting about closing costs altogether. There are also ongoing expenses to plan for, like property taxes, home insurance, utilities, and maintenance. If you're buying a home in Coquitlam or Port Moody, be sure to factor in these hidden costs from day one.
2. Skipping Pre-Approval
House hunting before getting pre-approved for a mortgage can lead to heartbreak. Knowing your budget upfront helps you move quickly and confidently when you find “the one”—and ensures you're only viewing homes within your price range.
3. Ignoring Ongoing Costs
It’s easy to focus on the purchase price and forget about the monthly or yearly extras—like strata or HOA fees, utility bills, or future property tax increases. We help our buyers in Port Moody and beyond build a complete financial picture before making an offer.
4. Impulse Buying
Falling in love with a home without researching the neighbourhood, future development plans, or resale potential is risky. As local experts, we guide you through neighbourhood insights in Glenayre, College Park, Klahanie, Lincoln Park, and all across the Tri-Cities to help you make a smart, informed decision.
5. Skipping a Home Inspection
That charming home might have hidden issues under the surface. A professional home inspection is a non-negotiable step to avoid costly surprises down the road.
6. Not Using a Real Estate Agent
Buying a home without a real estate agent? Let’s not. 😉 Working with experienced, local agents (like us!) makes the process smoother, safer, and more successful. From negotiating your offer to understanding city zoning and strata regulations, we’re in your corner every step of the way.
7. Not Thinking Ahead
It’s not just about what you need today—think 5 or 10 years from now. Will the home suit a growing family? Is it close to work or transit? Can you rent out a suite later? We help our clients look at the big picture before committing.
8. Overlooking Location
Location truly is everything. We help buyers evaluate schools, walkability, safety, amenities, and future growth when buying real estate in Port Moody, Coquitlam, and surrounding areas.
9. Forgetting Resale Value
Even if you plan to stay forever, life can change. Buying a home with strong resale value ensures you're protected if you need to move in the future.
10. Overextending FinanciallyStretching to the top of your budget can leave no wiggle room. We’ll help you understand what’s affordable—without overcommitting—and connect you with expert mortgage partners when needed.
Ready to Start Your Home Search?
We know there’s a LOT to think about, and we’re here to make the process simple and stress-free. Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, we walk with you from our first coffee chat to key hand-off (and beyond).
Let’s grab a coffee and talk about your plans. Buying real estate in the Tri-Cities doesn’t have to be overwhelming—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s grab a coffee and talk about your plans. Buying real estate in the Tri-Cities doesn’t have to be overwhelming—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
𝐌𝐞𝐠𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐰 & 𝐉𝐚𝐲𝐧𝐞 𝐄𝐝𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 | 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐎𝐑®📞 604-789-1587 | 604-240-4581
📧 info@shawedwards.com
