3 Common Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make (And How a Notary Can Save You Headaches)

3 Common Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make (and How a Notary Can Help You Avoid Them)

Buying your first home is exciting.
But it also comes with legal jargon, stress... and costly mistakes.
Here are 3 common pitfalls — and how a good notary can save you from a lot of headaches.

1. Not having your offer to purchase reviewed

Many first-time buyers think their broker or bank handles everything.
But your offer to purchase is a contract.
And once you’ve signed… it’s hard to undo.

Common risks:

• Misuse of clauses (inspection, financing, etc.)
• Unreasonable or invalid deadlines
• Verbal promises not confirmed in writing

What you should do:
Have a notary review your offer before signing. It’s often fast — and can save you from signing something you’ll regret.

2. Thinking the sale is final once the offer is accepted

Not true. An accepted offer is only the beginning.

Your notary is the one who:

• Verifies the title (mortgages? zoning issues?)
• Prepares the deed of sale and mortgage deed
• Makes sure everything is legally compliant
• Protects your interests

Without these steps, there’s no legal sale.

What you should do:
Call your notary as soon as the offer is accepted — not a week before the closing! They can start preparing your file right away.

3. Choosing a notary at random (or too late)

Too many buyers wait for the bank or their broker to “recommend” someone.
But this is your purchase, your money, your rights.

Common issues:

• File opened at the last minute = unnecessary stress
• Lack of clear communication
• No upfront fee transparency

What you should do:
Choose your notary as soon as you begin the process.
Ideally, someone who:

• Gives you a clear quote
• Explains the process
• Is available to answer questions

Quick recap

Notairo makes it easy

No need to contact 12 notaries or wait days for a reply.

• Find a reliable notary
• Get a clear quote
• Have your file prepared without the stress