Don't do the following:

• Buy an outmoded house or ill-fitting house, unless you are certain it can be tailored to suit your needs, and you know exactly how much that will cost.
• Let spur-of-the-moment impulses override sound judgment. Take your time and tour the house at least twice at different times of day. Drive around the neighborhood and find out what you're really getting into. Make sure the family is in agreement.
• Buy a house just because it's a bargain. Or you might end up with something you didn't bargain for, a less than ideal housing situation. Stick to your criteria and find a home that meets your needs, wants and budget.
• Buy a new house in a new subdivision if you expect to move in less than seven years. If you try to sell any sooner, you will find yourself competing with brand new homes being built around the corner and offering better financing.
• Try to work personal property into the real estate deal. Take care of the house first, then worry about the washer and dryer. Otherwise, you will just end up confusing the seller.
• Buy a house without getting to know the neighborhood first. You need to find out about emergency services, zoning restrictions, street lighting, parks, shopping centers, churches, medical facilities, etc.