5 Real Estate Myths That Cost Buyers Money (And What You Should Know Instead)
By Aubre Stacknick, Global Real Estate Advisor – Piatt Sotheby’s International Realty
Real estate is full of advice—some helpful, some outdated, and some that can cost buyers significant money or opportunity. After years of navigating Pittsburgh’s market, new construction, custom builds, historic homes, and everything in between, I’ve noticed the same myths popping up again and again.
Let’s clear the air and make your next move smarter, smoother, and more strategic.
MYTH 1: “The Highest Offer Always Wins.”
This is one of the biggest misunderstandings in real estate.
Sellers don’t just care about price—they care about certainty.
A slightly lower offer can win if it comes with fewer risks. What does that mean?
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Strong financing
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Clean timelines
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Thoughtful contingencies
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A buyer who’s already prepared to close
I’ve seen well-structured offers beat higher ones countless times. Winning isn’t about throwing money around—it’s about strategy. When your offer tells the seller, “We will get this done smoothly,” you instantly become more appealing.
The right guidance can save you thousands and still help you secure the home.
MYTH 2: “You Don’t Need an Agent for New Construction.”
This one makes me cringe because I’ve spent years in the custom-build and new-construction world.
Walking into a model home unrepresented means you’re voluntarily giving up someone who would negotiate for you—not the builder. The site rep is friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, but they do not work for you.
Buyers often forget that new construction comes with complexity:
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Contracts
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Upgrade pricing
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Timelines and build delays
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Inspections
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Warranty structure
And once you register without an agent? You usually can’t add one later.
Representation in new construction is not an extra. It’s a necessity—and it costs you nothing as the buyer. You deserve someone in your corner from day one.
MYTH 3: “If You Love It, Resale Doesn’t Matter.”
Every buyer says they’re never moving… until life happens.
A job changes.
A family grows.
A relocation opportunity comes out of nowhere.
Even if you adore the home, resale value should still factor in your decision. I always guide clients to consider:
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Location strength
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Natural light
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Layout flow
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Functionality
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Long-term desirability
Buying with your heart is wonderful—but buying with both heart and strategy protects your investment. Future you is going to appreciate the foresight.
MYTH 4: “Pre-Approval Is All You Need.”
Pre-approval is a starting point, not a power move.
In today’s competitive market, pre-underwriting is the gold standard. It tells sellers your financing is essentially vetted, and your offer is significantly less risky.
Why does this matter?
Because sellers want the path of least resistance.
They want certainty that the deal won’t fall apart.
Pre-underwriting makes you look like a cash buyer—even when you aren’t. It strengthens your offer, shortens your timeline, and positions you as a serious contender.
Preparation wins homes. Period.
MYTH 5: “More Square Footage Means a Better Home.”
More space doesn’t automatically improve your life.
Real estate should support your lifestyle—not overwhelm it. I always help buyers think intentionally about how they live:
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Do you walk to coffee?
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Work from home?
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Want an open-concept kitchen?
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Need outdoor space?
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Value low maintenance over size?
Bigger is not always better.
Better is better.
The right home is the one that makes your everyday life easier, more joyful, and more connected to what matters most.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Real estate is emotional, exciting, overwhelming, and full of moments where the right advice changes everything. My job—as your advisor, advocate, and sometimes reality-check—is to help you navigate the noise.
You deserve clarity.
You deserve strategy.
You deserve someone at the table who sees the whole picture.
If you’re buying, selling, building, or just exploring possibilities in Pittsburgh or beyond, I’m here when you’re ready.
