Welcome to 286 Beaver Street in the picturesque seaside city of Summerside, PEI, where coastal charm meets urban convenience. This stately 4-bedroom home is ideally situated next to a modern school, making it perfect for families who appreciate the blend of city living and the tranquility of waterfront life. Embrace the vibrant lifestyle that comes with living in a seaside community, with stunning ocean views on your walks, fresh seafood dining, and delightful local shops just moments away. Inside, the spacious layout and elegant finishes create an inviting atmosphere for both relaxation and entertaining, allowing you to fully enjoy the coastal lifestyle. With its prime location and thoughtful design, this home offers the perfect balance of seaside serenity and urban excitement. Discover your dream home at 286 Beaver Street, where every day feels like a vacation!
With over a decade of experience in the real estate industry, I am a dedicated and highly accomplished REALTOR® known for delivering exceptional service and results. A native of Summerside, Prince Edward Island, I possess in-depth knowledge of the local market and surrounding communities, making me a trusted guide for clients navigating residential, commercial, and land development transactions.
Driven by a genuine passion for real estate and an unwavering commitment to my clients, I have built a reputation for integrity, professionalism, and hard work. My client-first approach, combined with an ability to communicate effectively and stay accessible throughout the entire process, ensures a seamless and rewarding experience from start to finish—and beyond.
These qualities have earned me numerous accolades, including the prestigious Grand Centurion Award the only agent in Atlantic Canada to win this award twice and recognition
as a Top 1% agent with Century 21 Canada.
Throughout my career, I have completed over a thousand successful transactions, helping buyers find their dream homes and assisting sellers in achieving top market value for their properties. I am known for going above and beyond, offering expert guidance, insightful market analysis, and strategic advice that empowers clients to make confident, informed decisions.
I take great pride in building long-term relationships and am honoured to receive continued support from repeat clients and referrals. My strong work ethic, friendly approach, and commitment to excellence have made me a standout in the industry.
When I’m not working with clients, I enjoy spending quality time with his wife, Jenn, and our two children, Lincoln and Lexi.
Whether you are buying your first home or selling a long-loved property, you can count on me to turn your real estate goals into reality.
176 MORRISON LANE, NEW LONDON
3 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHS | 4120 SQ FT $1,275,000
Exceptional riverfront living with room to dock your boat. This 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 4,120 sq. ft. home showcases top-tier craftsmanship and exceptional spaces for entertaining—featuring vaulted ceilings, a custom bar, granite counters, a walk-out lower level, a 17’ swim spa, and a triple car garage. Professionally terraced for panoramic river views, and just minutes from PEI’s top amenities.
MARION DRIVE, STRATFORD
HISTORICAL PAINT CHOICES FOR ISLAND HOMES
When restoring or refreshing a heritage home on Prince Edward Island, choosing the right paint colours can make all the difference in preserving the character and charm of the property.
By Alana Lauren
Historic paint colours not only honour the architecture and traditions of the Island, but they also reflect the unique maritime culture and climate that have shaped its communities for generations.
In PEI, the palette of historic homes has traditionally drawn from the natural surroundings—coastal blues, earthy greens, barn reds, creamy whites, and warm ochres. These colours were often created using natural pigments and were applied with lime-based paints or early oil-based formulas. The result? A soft, weathered look that aged gracefully over time.
One of the most iconic choices for Island farmhouses and Victorians is “barn red.” Originally derived from iron oxide, this deep, warm red was practical as well as beautiful, offering durability and hiding dirt well on rural properties. White trim was often used to highlight architectural details like gingerbread woodwork, cornices, and verandas.
Soft buttery yellows and mossy greens were also popular in the 19th century, especially on Queen Anne-style homes.
These hues were often paired with darker accents—deep green or navy shutters and front doors—to add contrast and depth. Colonial-inspired homes often used muted earth tones like taupe, slate grey, and wheat to reflect their simpler aesthetic.
For seaside homes and cottages, soft pastels became a charming and practical choice, reflecting light and resisting fading in the strong salt air. Pale turquoise, robin’s egg blue, and seafoam green were all common choices, often accented with crisp white trim and shingles weathered to silvery grey.
Today, many paint companies, including Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams, offer heritage collections specifically inspired by historic Canadian architecture. These curated palettes take the guesswork
out of choosing historically appropriate shades, making it easier than ever to restore the look and feel of a period home.
When choosing a colour scheme, consider the home’s era, location, and architectural style. Take cues from old photographs, neighbouring heritage properties, and original materials like stone, wood, or brick. Painting with historically accurate colours is more than a design decision— it’s a way to preserve the Island’s architectural legacy and celebrate its unique sense of place.
Whether you’re restoring a farmhouse, a Victorian beauty, or a coastal cottage, historic paint colours offer timeless appeal that connects the past with the present—one brushstroke at a time.
RENOVATING TO SELL?
By Alana Lauren
When preparing your home for the market, strategic renovations can make a significant difference in how quickly your home sells—and for how much. The key is focusing on upgrades that offer the best return on investment and appeal to the widest range of buyers. Here are the best renovation choices when selling your home:
KITCHEN REFRESH
The kitchen is often the heart of the home and a major selling point. You don’t need a full remodel—simple updates like painting cabinets, updating hardware, replacing outdated light fixtures, or installing a new backsplash can modernize
the space without a huge expense.
BATHROOM UPDATES
Clean, bright, and functional bathrooms are essential to buyers. Consider re-grouting tile, replacing faucets or vanity mirrors, and updating lighting. If your budget allows, installing a new vanity or modern flooring can add value.
PAINT
A fresh coat of neutral paint throughout the home instantly makes the space feel clean and updated. Choose light, neutral colours that appeal to a broad audience and help rooms appear larger and brighter.
FLOORING
Worn or outdated flooring can turn buyers off. Replacing old carpet or linoleum with affordable hardwood, laminate,
or vinyl planks can give your home a polished, modern look.
CURB APPEAL
First impressions count. Simple updates like fresh landscaping, a painted front door, and updated outdoor lighting can greatly enhance your home’s exterior and attract more interest.
Focus on Impact, Not Expense
When renovating to sell, focus on cost-effective improvements with broad appeal rather than luxury upgrades. Consult with your REALTOR® to prioritize the updates that will make your home most attractive in your local market—and help you sell faster and for the best price.
Most important? Hire a reputable company to complete your renovations.
Whether buyers work from home full-time or need a quiet space for occasional Zoom calls, a functional and stylish home office is now considered a key selling point.
7Home Office Must-Haves for the Modern Buyer
ASremote work becomes more common, home offices have transformed from a bonus feature to a priority for modern homebuyers. Whether buyers work from home full-time or need a quiet space for occasional Zoom calls, a functional and stylish home office is now considered a key selling point. If you’re planning to list your home—or simply want to create a more productive space—here are the seven musthaves that today’s buyers are looking for.
1. Dedicated Space
While a kitchen table or corner of the living room may have worked in a pinch, buyers now want a clearly defined office space. Whether it’s a separate room, a finished basement area, or even a well-designed nook, having a dedicated home office helps buyers visualize a work-fromhome lifestyle. If your home doesn’t have a full office, stage a quiet area with a desk, chair, and task lighting to showcase the potential.
2. Natural Light
Buyers are drawn to workspaces with ample natural light. A sunny room feels more welcoming and boosts mood and productivity. If your home office has a window, make the most of it by removing heavy drapes and using light, neutral paint to reflect light. Add mirrors strategically to brighten darker areas.
3. Strong Internet and Tech Infrastructure
A reliable high-speed internet connection is non-negotiable. Buyers are also paying attention to how well a space supports video conferencing and other tech needs. Builtin outlets, charging stations, and smart home integration add value and convenience. If your home has fibre optic or upgraded cabling, be sure to highlight this in your listing.
4. Storage and Organization
Clutter kills productivity. Modern buyers want home offices with built-in storage, shelving, or space for filing systems. A well-organized workspace not only looks more appealing but also communicates that the home has been thoughtfully designed for function.
By Alana Lauren
5. Acoustic Considerations
With video calls and virtual meetings becoming the norm, sound quality matters. Thick rugs, curtains, and even acoustic panels can help reduce echo and outside noise. If your home office is near a busy street or common area, adding soundproofing features can be a major plus.
6. Stylish Yet Professional Design
Today’s homebuyers are looking for spaces that blend comfort with professionalism. Think ergonomic chairs, stylish yet simple décor, and a neutral colour palette that works well on camera. Stage the office with tasteful accessories, a tidy desktop, and a few plants to give it a polished look.
7. Flexibility
Lastly, flexibility is key. Buyers appreciate spaces that can be adapted as their needs change. A home office that could also function as a guest room, workout space, or craft area makes the home feel more versatile and appealing to a broader range of buyers.
By focusing on these modern home office essentials, sellers can showcase their property’s adaptability to today’s lifestyle—and make a lasting impression on remote-working buyers.
LIMONCELLO SPRITZ
1 Serving | Calories: 99
Made with just a handful of ingredients, this summer cocktail is quick to prepare—and refreshingly delicious.
INGREDIENTS
1 oz Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
1 oz Chilled Limoncello
2 oz Prosecco
Club Soda (optional)
Optional: Lemon wheel and fresh mint sprig for garnish.
METHOD
Fill chilled glass with ice.
Add lemon juice, limoncello and Prosecco
Top with Club Soda, if desired
Optional: Garnish with lemon wheel and mint sprig
CONTAINER GARDENING
By Alana Lauren
Container gardening is a fantastic way to bring life and colour to your outdoor space, whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small balcony. The key to success lies in choosing the right plants for the light conditions available. Here’s a guide to some of the best plants for both sunny and shaded spots.
FOR SUNNY LOCATIONS
Containers in full sun— areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight a day—offer a wide range of plant options. These plants thrive in bright, warm conditions and are typically drought-tolerant once established.
Geraniums: With their vibrant colours and long blooming period, geraniums are a staple in sunny containers.
Petunias: These come in a variety of colours and bloom profusely with adequate sun and regular deadheading.
Lavender: Fragrant and beautiful, lavender also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Sedum (Stonecrop): A hardy succulent that tolerates heat and sun well, perfect for lowmaintenance containers.
Salvia: A sun-loving perennial that produces striking spikes of flowers in purple, red, or blue shades.
FOR SHADY SPOTS
Shade-loving plants are ideal for areas that receive less than four hours of sun daily or are dappled with indirect light. These plants bring texture and subtle beauty to lower-light areas.
Hostas: Known for their lush foliage, hostas are excellent for shade and come in a wide variety of leaf shapes and colours.
Ferns: Add a soft, natural feel with ferns like Boston or maidenhair varieties that flourish in shady containers.
Impatiens: These colourful annuals bloom brightly in the shade and add a cheerful touch to any container.
Begonias: Both wax and tuberous begonias thrive in partial to full shade and offer continuous blooms.
Heuchera (Coral Bells): Grown primarily for their colourful leaves, heucheras bring depth and interest to shaded containers.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
Use high-quality potting mix for better drainage and aeration.
Ensure containers have proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Water consistently, especially in warm weather, and fertilize
regularly to keep plants thriving.
Whether you’re working with bright sun or gentle shade, there’s a container plant perfectly suited for your space—ready to bring colour and life all season long.
The Rise of Multi-Generational Homes
By Alana Lauren
In recent years, more families are embracing multi-generational living, where two or more generations share a single household.
Whether it’s adult children returning home, aging parents moving in, or grandparents helping with childcare, this lifestyle trend is becoming increasingly common—and it’s reshaping what buyers look for in a home.
Several factors are driving this shift. Rising housing costs, a growing need for care-giving, and a desire to maintain strong family connections are among the key reasons. In response, buyers are seeking homes with flexible layouts, additional bedrooms, finished basements,
or even secondary suites to comfortably accommodate extended family.
Multi-generational homes offer several advantages. They can ease financial pressure by allowing family members to share mortgage payments, utility bills, and household responsibilities. They also foster stronger family bonds and provide built-in support systems—whether that’s help with childcare, elder care, or simply day-to-day living.
For sellers, this trend presents an opportunity. Homes with separate entrances, in-law suites, or private bathrooms are increasingly desirable. Even a well-designed basement with a kitchenette or an extra living area can appeal to buyers looking for flexibility and longterm value.
However, thoughtful design is key. Privacy remains important in multi-generational setups, so features like soundproofing, dual living spaces, and clear boundaries between shared and private areas are often top priorities.
As family dynamics evolve, the demand for homes that reflect these changes continues to grow. Multi-generational living is no longer a niche preference—it’s a smart, practical solution for modern families navigating a changing world. Whether you’re buying, selling, or renovating, it’s worth considering how your home can meet the needs of multiple generations under one roof.
Harbourside
BRIAN ARSENAULT REALTOR
‰
Cell: 902-439-1436
bparsenault17@gmail.com
67 SEA LA VIE, PARK CORNER
4 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | 5733 SQ FT
MLS# 202511454 | $2,200,000
This breathtaking estate set on 62 acres of picturesque rolling countryside. This stunning home boasts beautifully designed living space, offering luxury, comfort, and panoramic views that will leave you speechless.
47
FERRY
WHARF ROAD, GEORGETOWN
3 BEDS | 2 BATHS | 1425 SQ FT
MLS# 202511122 | $449,000
Charming 1.5-story, 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with stunning views of the Cardigan River. Built in 2003 and situated on a quiet road, this wellmaintained property features large windows that fill the home with natural light and frame spectacular sunrises.
4508 RTE 12, BAYSIDE
4 BEDS | 2 BATHS | 2982 SQ FT
MLS# 202508073 | $985,000
Nestled along the serene banks of the beautiful Grand River, this exceptional property offers 21 acres of pure privacy and tranquility. Whether you’re looking to entertain guests, or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, this home is perfectly designed for both.
5 SEASIDE DRIVE, MALPEQUE
MLS# 202508538 | 1.08 ACRES | $99,000
VACANT LAND
This prime water view property offers breathtaking panoramic views of Darnley Basin, this large lot offers a peaceful setting that’s perfect for building your dream summer getaway or year-round home. Located just minutes from the Cabot Beach Provincial Park and a short drive to Kensington, you’ll enjoy the convenience of nearby amenities, charming shops, and excellent local restaurants.
A Guide to Buying Your First Home
By Alana Lauren
Buying your first home is a major milestone—and while it’s an exciting process, it can also feel overwhelming. Understanding each step can help you feel more confident and prepared. Here’s a simple guide to walk you through the homebuying journey.
Assess Your Finances
Before you start house hunting, take a close look at your finances. Review your income, expenses, savings, and credit score. Determine how much you can realistically afford, keeping in mind not just the purchase price, but also property taxes, insurance, and ongoing maintenance.
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
A mortgage pre-approval helps you understand your budget and shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer. Lenders will assess your credit history, income, and debt to determine how much you’re eligible to borrow.
Choose the Right REALTOR®
Working with an experienced real estate agent is crucial,
especially for first-time buyers. They’ll guide you through the process, help you find properties that meet your criteria, and negotiate on your behalf.
Start House Hunting
Make a list of your needs and wants, including location, size, and features. Visit open houses, schedule showings, and be patient—finding the right home can take time.
Get a Home Inspection
A professional inspection can uncover hidden issues and give you peace of mind. If problems arise, you may be able to renegotiate the price or request repairs.
Finalize Financing and Close the Deal
With the offer accepted, finalize your mortgage, complete any legal paperwork, and prepare for closing day. This is when you
Make an Offer
Once you’ve found the perfect home, your agent will help you draft and submit an offer. This includes the proposed purchase price, any conditions (such as financing or home inspection), and the closing date.
officially take ownership of the property.
Buying your first home may be complex, but with the right support and preparation, it can also be incredibly rewarding.
CURB APPEAL MATTERS: Small Upgrades That Add Value
By Alana Lauren
When it comes to selling a home, first impressions are everything.
Curb appeal—the attractiveness of your home’s exterior—is one of the most powerful tools for catching a buyer’s attention before they even walk through the front door. The good news? You don’t need a major renovation to make a big impact. Small, strategic upgrades can significantly boost your home’s appeal and overall value.
Start with the basics: a clean, well-maintained yard. Mow the lawn, trim hedges, weed flower beds, and add fresh mulch. Even a few seasonal flowers in planters or window boxes can bring life and colour to the space. Pressure washing the driveway, walkway, and siding can also instantly freshen up the look of your property.
Next, consider your front door. It’s the focal point of your home’s exterior and sets the tone for what’s inside. A fresh coat of paint—especially in a
bold, welcoming colour—can make your entrance stand out. Upgrade hardware, add a new doormat, and install modern house numbers or outdoor lighting for a polished, finished appearance.
Small details matter too. Repair cracked steps, replace a worn mailbox, and ensure that gutters and downspouts are clean and functioning. If your home has a porch, stage it with a couple of chairs or a bench to create an inviting sitting area.
These simple, affordable changes not only enhance your home’s visual appeal but can also increase its perceived value. Buyers are more likely to view a home positively—and offer competitively—when it looks well cared for from the outside. Investing a little time and money in curb appeal can pay off in a big way when it comes time to sell.
OPEN HOUSE ETIQUETTE FOR SELLERS
By Micheal Thompson, Odyssey Virtual
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything—and an open house is often the first opportunity prospective buyers have to explore your property in person. While your real estate agent will guide much of the process, sellers play an essential role in making the experience as welcoming and positive as possible. Observing proper open house etiquette can help your home stand out for all the right reasons and leave buyers with a lasting impression.
Let the Agent Lead
As a seller, it can be tempting to stick around during the open house to answer questions or point out features you love. However, it’s best to vacate the home during the event. Buyers typically feel more comfortable exploring and speaking freely when the homeowner isn’t present. Trust your real estate agent to highlight your home’s best features and handle questions professionally.
Clean, Declutter, and Depersonalize
Your home should be sparkling clean and free from clutter. This includes not only tidying surfaces but also organizing
closets, cupboards, and storage areas—buyers will look everywhere. Remove personal items such as family photos, children’s artwork, and overly specific décor to help visitors imagine themselves living in the space. A neutral, wellstaged home allows buyers to picture their own furniture, style, and life unfolding in each room.
Secure Valuables and Personal Information
Ensure that anything of value—whether monetary or sentimental—is securely stored or removed from the property before the open house. This includes electronics, jewelry, prescription medications, financial documents, and spare keys. While most open houses go smoothly, it’s better to err on the side of caution.
Create an Inviting Atmosphere
Your goal is to make your home feel warm and welcoming. Adjust the temperature so the house is comfortable, open windows if weather permits, and make sure every room is well-lit. A few small touches, like fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit, or a light scent from a candle or diffuser, can make a big impact. Avoid strong air fresheners, which may come across as an attempt to mask odors.
Consider Your Pets
If you have pets, it’s best to remove them from the home during the open house. Not all buyers are animal lovers, and allergies or fear could distract from their experience. Additionally, pet odors or
signs of pet damage can be a turnoff, so be sure to clean thoroughly and repair any issues beforehand.
Follow Up Professionally
After the open house, your agent may receive feedback from potential buyers. Be open to their comments—even if they’re critical—as they can provide valuable insight. You may learn that a small change could improve your home’s appeal or help you stand out among competing listings.
By following proper open house etiquette, you’ll set the stage for a smooth showing and improve your chances of receiving a strong offer. A clean, welcoming, and well-prepared home helps buyers connect emotionally and envision themselves making it their own.
info@odysseyvirtual.ca 902.439.0675
www.odysseyvirtual.ca
WHY CHOOSE ON THE MARKET AS THE GO-TO PLATFORM FOR ISLAND REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS?
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Engaging Editorials: High-quality content designed to extend shelf life and boost readership and pickup rates.
Stunning Visuals: Eye-catching content specifically tailored to the Island’s real estate market.
Ample Content: Always at least 32 pages of valuable real estate insights and engaging editorials.
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Advertising Incentives: Special rates for yearly contracts to maximize your marketing budget.
Local Event Participation: Exposure through local marketing events like the PEI Provincial Home Show.
On the Market provides the tools and audience you need to stand out in the Island’s real estate market! Where Buyers and Sellers Intersect!
16288677 Canada Inc.
Mike Thompson mike@onthemarket-pei.ca 902.439.0675
Odyssey Virtual Mike Thompson info@odysseyvirtual.ca
Mike Thompson mike@onthemarket-pei.ca
On The Market Was Created by
www.onthemarket-pei.ca 902.439.0675
Read us online: www.onthemarket-pei.ca
On The Market is published monthly by 16288677 Canada Inc. On The Market is independently owned and operated. Opinions expressed in On The Market are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or the advertisers. On The Market does not assume liability for content.
Perfectly timed for Father’s Day, this rich and indulgent recipe brings together the bold flavours of chocolate and coffee. It’s delicious, decadent, and perfectly balanced with just the right touch of sweetness.
INGREDIENTS
CAKE:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups white sugar
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce
2 eggs
1 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
1 cup hot water
CHOCOLATE COFFEE BUTTER CREAM:
1 cup butter, at room temp. 3 -1/2 to 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted, depending on how sweet/thick you want
1 tbs instant coffee (adjust amount to your preference less or more)
1 cup of cocoa powder
2 tbs hot water (more or less depending on how strong you want the coffee flavour)
2 tbs heavy cream /double cream
METHOD
CAKE:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two nine-inch round cake pans.
Measure flour, sugar, cocoa, apple sauce, eggs, buttermilk, baking powder, soda, and salt into a mixing bowl. Dissolve instant coffee in hot water, and add to mixing bowl. Beat at medium speed for two minutes until smooth; batter will be thin. Pour into prepared pans.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until an inserted wooden pick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, and then turn out onto racks to cool completely.
CHOCOLATE COFFEE BUTTER CREAM
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, or large bowl with a hand held mixer beat the butter for five full minutes, until light and fluffy.
Sieve the powdered sugar and cocoa powder
to prevent any lumps and add half to butter. Beat for another five minutes then add the remaining powdered sugar/cocoa and mix for three more minutes.
While powdered sugar is mixing into butter, in a small bowl add instant coffee and hot water. Add the coffee mixture to frosting with heavy cream and beat for another three minutes. Store in the fridge for up to seven days, let come to room temperature, and mix before using.
Frost cooled cake with coffee butter cream.
Optional toppings:
After frosting, melt some semisweet chocolate baking squares or chips in a double boiler. Drizzle chocolate around top outside edges letting it run down sides, or over top of cake.
Grate dark chocolate over top of cake and serve with coffee ice cream.
Top Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make
(And How to Avoid Them)
By Alana Lauren
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone—but it can also be overwhelming. With so many steps involved, it’s easy to make missteps that can cost you time, money, or even your dream home. Here are some of the most common mistakes first-time buyers make—and how to avoid them.
Skipping Mortgage PreApproval
One of the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make is shopping for a home before securing mortgage preapproval. Without it, you won’t know how much you can truly afford, and you may fall in love with a home outside your budget. Pre-approval not only gives you a clear price range but also strengthens your offer when you’re ready to buy.
Underestimating the Total Cost of Homeownership
Many buyers focus only on the purchase price and monthly mortgage payment. However, owning a home comes with additional costs—property taxes, insurance, maintenance, utilities, and potential repairs. It’s important to budget for these ongoing expenses and leave a financial cushion for unexpected costs.
Letting Emotions Drive Decisions
It’s easy to get emotionally attached to a home, especially when it has charming features or a great location. But don’t let excitement cloud your judgment. Stay objective, stick to your budget, and ensure the home is a good fit for your long-term needs, not just your current wishlist.
Overlooking the Importance of a Home Inspection
Waiving a home inspection to make an offer more appealing might seem strategic in a competitive market, but it’s risky. A professional inspection can uncover costly issues like structural damage, electrical problems, or water leaks. Always get an inspection—and use the findings to negotiate repairs or price adjustments if needed.
Ignoring the Neighborhood
First-time buyers often focus on the home itself and forget to consider the neighborhood. Be sure to visit at different times of day, research local schools, commute times, amenities, and future development plans. A great house in the wrong location can quickly become a regret.
Making Major Financial Changes Before Closing
Once you’re approved for a mortgage, avoid changing jobs, taking out loans, or racking up credit card debt. Lenders will
recheck your financial status before closing, and any major changes can jeopardize your mortgage approval.
Not Working with a Real Estate Professional
Some buyers try to go it alone to save money, but a knowledgeable REALTOR® is an invaluable resource. They can help you navigate the process, negotiate the best deal, and avoid common pitfalls—especially in a competitive or unfamiliar market.
The Bottom Line
Buying your first home doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By doing your homework, asking questions, and working with trusted professionals, you can avoid costly mistakes and enjoy a smoother path to homeownership. Remember: the goal isn’t just to buy a house—it’s to buy the right house for you.
WHERE BUYERS AND SELLERS INTERSECT
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