Buying a house is huge life milestone, but a major decision as well. Not only does it cost you more money than pretty much anything else you will ever buy, but it’s a new start for you and your family, and you want to get it right, right? You do not want to make the wrong decision and buy a house that is not right for you or that is riddled with problems that you never noticed before you signed on the dotted line, and that means there are a few things you should do before you even think about buying a new place.

1. Get Your Finances in Order (No, Seriously)

Before you fall in love with a house you definitely cannot afford, take a hard look at your finances. That means checking your credit score, getting pre-approved for a mortgage, and making sure you’re not currently relying on three different credit cards to get through the month. House shopping without a budget is like grocery shopping hungry – you’ll make bold, regrettable choices.

2. Stalk the Neighborhood (In a Normal, Non-Creepy Way)

Visit the area at different times of day. Morning traffic, evening noise, weekend vibes – it all matters to how much you are going to enjoy the place once you are living there. The charming street you loved at noon might turn into a late-night drag race track, after all. So, be sure to check where people park, look at nearby schools (even if you don’t have kids), and find out whether the neighbors love hosting 4th of July fireworks in March. A house is more than walls; it’s everything around it, too, so you need to get the full picture before you even think about buying.

3. Look Past the Cute Décor

That stylish wallpaper? It’s temporary. That giant crack behind the stylish wallpaper? Not temporary. When touring, look past the candles,  cushions, and Pinterest vibes. Check for signs of moisture, weird smells, uneven floors, and anything that makes your inner homeowner whisper, “Hmm, that seems expensive.”

4. Research the Local Market

Before you make an offer, understand whether homes are selling above asking price, how long they stay on the market, and whether values are rising or dropping. You don’t need to become an economist, you just need enough context to avoid dramatically overpaying because you fell in love with a bay window.

5. Schedule a Professional Home Inspection

This one is non-negotiable. A home inspection is the difference between buying a solid house and accidentally adopting a money pit. Inspectors check the roof, plumbing, electrical systems, insulation, foundation – the works. If something’s wrong, you can renegotiate, ask for repairs, or run for your life. You should never skip this step unless you’re actively trying to star in your own home renovation horror movie.

6. Bring Your Own Reality Check Friend

Everyone needs that brutally honest friend who will say, “This bathroom is haunted,” or “Absolutely not, you are not dealing with that yard.” Emotional support and practical advice, all in one place. They will save you from your own romantic delusions.

Once you’ve done these six things, then go ahead and buy!