Buying a home is one of the biggest milestones in life—and for many Virginians, it’s a dream come true.
But after the excitement of closing fades and the boxes are unpacked, some new homeowners start to notice things they didn’t expect. While no home purchase is perfect, certain regrets pop up time and time again across the state.
Whether it’s unexpected costs, overlooked details, or neighborhood surprises, here are 9 regrets Virginia homeowners commonly have—things few people warn you about until it’s too late.
1. Underestimating Property Taxes and Insurance Costs
Many first-time buyers in Virginia focus on the mortgage, only to realize later that property taxes and homeowners insurance can add hundreds—or even thousands—per year to their expenses. These “hidden” costs often turn a manageable budget into a financial stretch.
2. Skipping a Thorough Inspection
Rushing the inspection—or waiving it entirely in a competitive market—can lead to major regrets. From old HVAC systems to plumbing issues, Virginians who didn’t dig deep during inspections often find themselves facing costly repairs they didn’t budget for.
3. Falling in Love with the House, Not the Location
That perfect kitchen or spacious layout can distract buyers from the bigger picture: the neighborhood. Many Virginians later regret not spending more time researching school districts, traffic patterns, or how far away the nearest grocery store really is.
4. Misjudging Commute Times
Google Maps doesn’t always tell the full story. Some homeowners in Northern Virginia, for example, regret buying homes that look close to work on paper—only to find their commute doubled during rush hour traffic.
5. Buying Too Much House
Bigger isn’t always better. Many Virginians find that maintaining and heating a larger home becomes more of a burden than a blessing. High utility bills, cleaning responsibilities, and ongoing maintenance can take a toll.
6. Not Considering Future Development
What’s a quiet open field today might be a construction site tomorrow. Some Virginians regret not checking local zoning laws or planned developments, only to be surprised by noisy neighbors, retail centers, or high-rise apartments popping up next door.
7. Overlooking HOA Rules and Fees
Homeowners associations are common in many Virginia communities, especially newer developments. Buyers often regret not fully understanding the fees, restrictions, and rules—like what color you can paint your door or where you can park.
8. Taking on DIY Projects They Weren’t Ready For
HGTV makes it look easy, but home renovations can be overwhelming—especially for new homeowners. Virginians often regret jumping into “fixer-upper” projects without the time, budget, or skills to complete them properly.
9. Not Thinking About Resale Value
At the time of purchase, most buyers aren’t thinking about selling—but they should. Some regret buying quirky layouts, odd locations, or homes with limited curb appeal that later prove hard to resell.
Diamond Lines
Buying a home in Virginia can be an exciting adventure, but it’s also filled with potential pitfalls.
While no purchase is without compromise, being aware of these common regrets can help future buyers make more informed—and satisfying—decisions. After all, it’s easier to avoid a mistake than to fix one later.
