Buyer’s Remorse: Avoiding Regretful Purchases
Buying a home is one of the most exciting—and expensive—adventures you’ll ever take. But imagine moving in, getting settled, and then realizing… you made the wrong choice. Unfortunately, buyers regret is more common than you think.
A 2023 Zillow survey showed that a staggering 72% of recent homebuyers experienced buying regrets. And the most cited issue? Choosing a home that doesn’t align with their long-term lifestyle or financial needs.
At Mantle Realty, we have helped many families buy homes in Lexington, High Point, Winston-Salem, and the Triad. From the first open house to the final monthly payment, we’ve seen what leads to confident purchases—and what causes the sinking feeling of buyer’s remorse.
Let’s break down the biggest home buyer regret, why it happens, and—most importantly—how you can avoid buyers regret.
Why Buyer’s Remorse Is So Common in Real Estate
The thrill of buying a house can cloud judgment. Between bidding wars, interest rates, tight timelines, and “just one more showing,” it’s easy to overlook red flags or make rushed decisions.
Here are the most common causes of home buying mistakes that lead to regret:
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Overextending your budget and being house poor
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Underestimating maintenance costs and repairs
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Falling in love with features (hello, freestanding tub) instead of function
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Ignoring commute times or neighborhood fit
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Failing to factor in rising property taxes or mortgage rates
One of the biggest mistakes we see? Buyers getting hyper-focused on the purchase price without considering the total cost of owning the home.
At Mantle Realty, we’ve helped hundreds of clients in Lexington, High Point, Winston-Salem, Kernersville, and across the Triad find homes that fit not just their budget, but their lives. If you’re gearing up to start your search, learning from others’ mistakes is the smartest first step. Dive into this quick video for valuable insights—or keep reading to learn exactly how to sidestep the #1 buyer’s regret.
How to Avoid Buyer’s Remorse
If you’re planning to purchase a home this year, the best thing you can do is learn from others’ regrets. Let’s walk through how to protect yourself from buyers regret.
1. Prioritize Lifestyle Over Features
That gourmet kitchen might wow you now—but how will that 45-minute commute feel in six months?
Before you start touring homes, take time to define your non-negotiables. Think about:
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Proximity to work, schools, and essential amenities
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Outdoor space vs. square footage
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Walkability and traffic patterns
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School district quality—even if you don’t have kids (it affects resale value)
At Mantle Realty, we help clients connect their long-term goals to the right home—and the right community. Explore options like Lexington NC homes for sale or browse neighborhoods in the Triad to see what aligns with your lifestyle.
2. Test the Neighborhood Before You Have Buyers Regret
One of the most underrated home buying tips is to visit the neighborhood at multiple times of day. A quiet street at noon could be filled with traffic or noise at 6 PM.
Do this before making an offer:
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Drive by on weekends and after work hours
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Check community groups or Nextdoor for local chatter
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Search crime stats and zoning plans with your agent
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Visit nearby parks, shops, or local events (try Visit NC for listings)
This simple habit can help you spot red flags and avoid buying regrets based on location.
3. Understand the Full Cost of Homeownership
Many buyers are surprised when they realize their monthly payment is just one piece of the puzzle. Other costs include:
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Property taxes
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Home insurance
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HOA dues
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Repairs and maintenance costs
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Utility bills and landscaping
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Emergency fund for surprise expenses
Be sure to factor in home loans, current interest rates, and long-term financial goals. If you’re using VA loans or first-time buyer programs, a trusted lender can break down true affordability. The monthly cost of a property is one of the top reasons for buyers regret.
Tip: Use a mortgage calculator to compare mortgage rates and payment estimates—and don’t forget to budget for furnishings and moving costs.
4. Ask the Right Questions When Touring Homes
When emotions are high, it’s easy to overlook the details. Don’t make that mistake. Ask questions like:
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Why are the sellers moving?
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How old are the HVAC, roof, and water heater?
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What are the average utility costs?
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Have there been insurance claims or flooding?
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Are there future developments nearby?
You wouldn’t buy a car without checking under the hood—don’t buy a home without digging deeper.
And if you’re using credit, be mindful. Avoid opening new credit cards or making large purchases during the homebuying process, as it can affect your credit score and mortgage approval.
5. Don’t Skip the Inspection (Even in a Hot Market)
Waiving inspections to win a bidding war may seem smart—but it’s also risky. An inspection reveals:
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Foundation cracks
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Electrical or plumbing issues
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Mold, termites, or radon
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Unsafe structures or code violations
The cost of skipping this step could be thousands of dollars later in surprise repairs.
A solid real estate agent will help you craft an offer that’s competitive and smart. That means knowing when to push and when to pause.
6. Work With a Real Estate Agent Who Actually Listens
No website, app, or AI tool can replace a local expert who understands your market, your timeline, and your goals.
At Mantle Realty, our agents:
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Help you align your budget and home purchases with lifestyle needs
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Spot resale risks and hidden costs before you commit
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Guide you through clever real estate strategies to win without regret
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Understand how to navigate home loans, programs, and inspections
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Save you time, money, and stress
And we’ll never push you into a deal that doesn’t feel right. If the home isn’t a fit, we’ll keep looking until it is the last thing we want is buyers regret.
➡️ Meet your Mantle Realty agent
➡️ Read our buyer’s guide
➡️ Browse homes for sale
Final Thoughts: Buying a House Without Regret
Buying a home should be empowering, not filled with uncertainty. By avoiding the most common home buying mistakes, asking smarter questions, and thinking long-term, you can make decisions you’ll feel great about—today and ten years from now.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, remember this: you don’t have to do it alone. The right home, at the right price, in the right neighborhood is possible—with the right help.
Reach out to Mantle Realty today. We’re here to help you buy smart, avoid regret, and love where you live.
Looking for more first-time buyer tips? Check out resources from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to get additional guidance on navigating your home buying journey.
