By Adam Chubbuck
Navy Veteran | #18 Ranked Maryland Realtor
Team Leader – Team Alpha Charlie at Douglas Realty
2026 is shaping up to be one of the strongest years in recent memory for first-time home buyers in Maryland—especially in Anne Arundel County.
Inventory is up 18–22% year-over-year (Bright MLS, early 2026), mortgage rates have stabilized around 6.2–6.3%, and VA zero-down financing remains a major advantage near Fort Meade, NSA, and BWI. More buyers are finally stepping off the sidelines.
But better conditions don’t eliminate bad decisions. I see first-time buyers make the same costly mistakes every week—mistakes that can add tens of thousands to the cost of a home or cause buyers to miss the right opportunity entirely.
As Maryland’s #18 ranked Realtor, here are the seven biggest first-time buyer mistakes I see in 2026—and how to avoid them.
1. Getting Pre-Approved Too Late
The mistake: Waiting until you find a home to talk to a lender—then realizing you can’t compete or qualify.
The fix: Get pre-approved before touring homes. In today’s market, sellers expect it. VA buyers especially need early lender conversations to understand zero-down power, funding fees, and rate options.
2. Underestimating Monthly Costs
The mistake: Looking only at the mortgage payment and ignoring taxes, insurance, HOA fees, utilities, and maintenance.
The fix: Budget using full PITI + HOA + utilities. In places like Pasadena or Glen Burnie, taxes and insurance alone can add $400–$800 per month.
3. Not Using VA Loan Benefits
The mistake: Assuming VA loans are complicated, only for first-time buyers, or not worth the effort.
The fix: If you’re eligible, VA loans are one of the most powerful wealth-building tools available: 0% down, no PMI, and seller-paid closing costs are often on the table. Work with VA-experienced professionals.
4. Chasing the “Perfect” Home
The mistake: Passing on solid homes in Glen Burnie or Severn while holding out for turnkey homes in Severna Park—until you’re priced out of both.
The fix: Focus on needs over wants. Cosmetic fixes often mean better pricing and instant equity in a more balanced 2026 market.
5. Skipping or Weakening Inspections
The mistake: Waiving inspections or hiring the cheapest inspector to “win.”
The fix: Never waive inspections in Maryland. Spend $400–$600 on a thorough inspector who evaluates foundation, roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. It’s the cheapest protection you’ll ever buy.
6. Failing to Negotiate
The mistake: Paying full list price without asking for concessions—even as inventory rises.
The fix: In 2026, many sellers are flexible. Ask for 2–3% in closing cost help, repairs, or rate buydowns, especially on homes sitting 30+ days. VA buyers often get closing costs covered entirely.
7. Buying Without Representation
The mistake: Using the listing agent or trying to handle contracts alone.
The fix: Hire a buyer’s agent who works only for you. Local expertise matters—especially with Anne Arundel County contracts, negotiations, and off-market opportunities.
The Real Cost of These Mistakes
MistakeCommon ResultPotential CostLate pre-approvalLost homeMissed opportunityIgnoring full costsPayment shockBudget strainSkipping VA benefitsHigher cash outlay$10K–$30KChasing perfectionOverpaying laterLost equityWeak inspectionsHidden repairs$10K+No concessionsOverpaying$5K–$
About the Author
Adam Chubbuck is the Team Leader of Team Alpha Charlie at Douglas Realty and a retired Navy Chief. In 2025, he ranked #18 out of 20,000+ Maryland Realtors (Top 0.5% statewide), closing 54 transactions and over $28M in volume.
Known for his VA loan expertise and hyper-local market knowledge, Adam specializes in helping first-time buyers and military families succeed in Anne Arundel County.
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