Top 5 Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers Make in St. Pete (And How to Avoid Them)
“Experience is simply the name we give our mistakes” - Oscar Wilde
Top 5 Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers Make in St. Pete (And How to Avoid Them)
By Holden Kellerhals, NEXA Mortgage | St. Petersburg, FL
Thinking about buying your first home in St. Pete?
You’re not alone! Our beautiful city is booming with new homeowners—and for good reason. But even the savviest buyers can trip up. Here are the top 5 mistakes I see first-timers make in St. Petersburg (and how you can avoid them):
1. Not Getting Pre-Approved Early
The Mistake:
Many buyers start house hunting before they know what they can afford. In St. Pete’s fast-paced market, you might fall in love with a home, only to find out later you don’t qualify—or worse, lose out to another buyer with a pre-approval letter.
How to Avoid:
Get pre-approved before you start your search. This shows sellers you’re serious and gives you a clear budget—plus, you’ll spot and solve any credit or income surprises early.
2. Underestimating Closing Costs & Upfront Expenses
The Mistake:
First-time buyers often focus on the down payment and forget about closing costs, inspections, and moving expenses. In St. Pete, those extra costs can add up!
How to Avoid:
Ask your mortgage strategist for a full breakdown of all costs—before you make an offer. There are also local down payment and closing cost assistance programs to help (ask me which ones you qualify for!).
3. Skipping the Neighborhood “Vibe Check”
The Mistake:
Buying in a neighborhood you’ve only visited online can lead to regrets—St. Pete has unique pockets and every street has its own feel.
How to Avoid:
Spend time in the area you’re considering. Check out Grand Central, Kenwood, or Historic Uptown at different times of day. Grab a bagel at Pete’s or catch sunset at The Pier to get a true feel for the community.
4. Not Using Local Experts
The Mistake:
Some buyers use out-of-town lenders or agents who don’t know the ins and outs of St. Pete’s market or available programs.
How to Avoid:
Work with local pros! They know the best neighborhoods, local grant and loan programs, and how to win in a competitive market. (Hi, I’m Holden—happy to be your guide!)
5. Letting Emotions Override Strategy
The Mistake:
It’s easy to fall in love with a home and want to jump in—but skipping inspections, waiving contingencies, or busting your budget can lead to buyer’s remorse.
How to Avoid:
Stay calm, get expert advice, and make strategic offers. Remember: There will always be another house, but you can’t always get out of a bad contract.
Bonus: How to Avoid All These Mistakes?
Start with a plan and a partner who knows St. Pete—that’s where I come in!
Ready to Start Your Homebuying Journey?
Let’s chat about your goals and make a game plan that avoids these mistakes and gets you the keys with confidence.
Text or call me at 917-573-1191 or schedule a consult.
PS: Know someone thinking about buying? Please share this post!
And if any of your friends, family members, or coworkers are looking to buy, sell, or refinance, can I count on you to introduce us on a two-way text?
Holden Kellerhals, Mortgage Strategist - NEXA Mortgage, St. Petersburg, FL
NMLS #2646551 | holdenkellerhals.com
