10 Deadly Mistakes When Purchasing A Home Not shopping around for a mortgage. Making an offer on a home without being prequalified. Not having a home inspection. Limiting your search to open houses, ads or the internet. Choosing a Real Estate agent who is not committed to forming a strong business relationship with you. Thinking there is only one perfect house out there. Not considering long-term needs. Not examining insurance issues. Not knowing total costs involved. Not following through on due diligence.