The 7 Biggest Mistakes OKC Home Buyers Make (and How to Avoid Them)
By Tyler Howat
8 / 20 /2025
3 minute read
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#1 Real Estate Team for Veterans and Active duty in Oklahoma
Buying a home in Oklahoma City is an exciting milestone, but it can also be overwhelming. From choosing the right neighborhood to navigating financing, there are plenty of opportunities for mistakes along the way. The good news? Most of these missteps can be avoided with the right preparation and guidance.
For veterans and active-duty service members, the VA Home Loan program provides unique advantages—such as no down payment, no private mortgage insurance, and competitive rates. But even with those benefits, buyers in OKC can still fall into common traps.
Here are the seven biggest mistakes OKC home buyers make—and how you can avoid them.
1. Skipping Pre-Approval
The mistake: Searching for homes without getting pre-approved first.
Why it matters: Without pre-approval, you don’t know your actual budget, and sellers may not take your offer seriously.
How to avoid it: Work with a trusted local lender early in the process. For veterans, getting pre-approved for a VA loan can give you a clear picture of what you can afford and strengthen your offer.
2. Overlooking Neighborhood Research
The mistake: Falling in love with a house but ignoring the surrounding area.
Why it matters: Commutes, schools, healthcare access, and community amenities affect your quality of life and long-term satisfaction.
How to avoid it: Research different OKC neighborhoods, visit them at various times of day, and consider both current and future needs. See the top 5 OKC neighborhoods for veterans here.
3. Forgetting About Closing Costs and Other Expenses
The mistake: Only budgeting for the down payment.
Why it matters: Closing costs, inspections, insurance, and repairs can add up quickly.
How to avoid it: Ask your lender for a full breakdown of costs. Veterans using VA benefits may have some costs reduced or covered, but it’s still important to budget carefully.
4. Waiving the Home Inspection
The mistake: Skipping the inspection to speed up the process or make your offer stand out.
Why it matters: Even if the home passes a VA appraisal, there could still be hidden problems like plumbing leaks or electrical issues.
How to avoid it: Always invest in a professional inspection. It’s a relatively small cost compared to the potential expense of major repairs. Find recommended home inspectors here.
5. Letting Emotions Take Over
The mistake: Getting attached to a home and overpaying to “win” it.
Why it matters: Overspending or ignoring red flags can lead to financial strain or buyer’s remorse.
How to avoid it: Set a clear budget (based on your pre-approval) and stick to it. For veterans, remember your VA loan limits and use them as a safeguard against stretching too far.
6. Not Working with a Local Real Estate Expert
The mistake: Trying to go it alone or using an agent unfamiliar with the OKC market.
Why it matters: Each neighborhood has its own pricing trends, and VA loans come with unique guidelines. An experienced Realtor can help you avoid costly missteps.
How to avoid it: Partner with an OKC-based agent who understands the market and, if you’re a veteran, one who has experience with VA transactions.
7. Focusing Only on Today’s Needs
The mistake: Buying a home that fits right now but doesn’t account for future changes.
Why it matters: Life evolves—families grow, jobs change, and retirement comes closer.
How to avoid it: Think long-term. Choose a home that can adapt to your needs and will hold strong resale value in the Oklahoma City market.
Final Thoughts
Buying a home in Oklahoma City doesn’t have to be stressful. By avoiding these common mistakes and leaning on trusted professionals, you can make a confident, informed decision. And if you’re a veteran, don’t forget to take full advantage of your VA benefits—they’re designed to make the path to homeownership smoother and more affordable.
Ready to start your home search in OKC? We’d be honored to help you navigate the process and make the most of the opportunities available to you.
FAQ
Who qualifies for a VA loan?
Most active duty service members, veterans, and some surviving spouses may qualify.
Do I need perfect credit to use a VA loan?
Not at all. VA loans offer flexible credit guidelines compared to most loans.
What does “$0 down” really mean?
You may be able to purchase a home without a down payment if you qualify.
How long does the VA homebuying process take?
Typically 30–45 days, depending on how quickly things move.
Is it really possible to buy with $0 out of pocket?
Yes, especially if the seller covers closing costs and you’re eligible for no down payment.
Do I have to use a specific lender?
No—you can work with any VA-approved lender of your choice.
Can I use my VA loan benefit more than once?
Yes! You can reuse it multiple times if you meet the requirements.
Are there any extra fees with a VA loan?
There’s a VA funding fee, but many buyers roll it into the loan.
Can I buy a fixer-upper with a VA loan?
Sometimes—homes must meet minimum condition requirements.
How do I get started?
Click “Get Started” and we’ll walk you through everything step by step.