Buying or selling a home is a big milestone — and almost everyone has an opinion about it. Friends, family, even social media are full of tips and “rules” about the real estate process. The problem? Not all of that information is rooted in reality. In other words: there are a lot of real estate myths floating around.
At CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate, we’ve helped thousands of clients across North Central Ohio navigate the market — and over the years, we’ve heard just about every myth in the book. From who really finds the home to how negotiations actually work, we’re here to set the record straight on some of the most common real estate misconceptions — and help you feel more prepared, whether you’re just browsing or ready to make a move.
Ready to navigate the real estate market with confidence? — Our team at CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate is here to guide you. Reach out today.
Real Estate Myths #1: “I Don’t Need a Real Estate Agent — I Can Just Use Zillow”
Zillow and other online platforms are helpful for browsing, but they don’t give you the full picture when it comes to buying or selling a home. Real estate professionals are invaluable for navigating the complexities of the process — from pricing strategy and offer negotiations to coordinating inspections, appraisals, and paperwork.
Behind the scenes, your agent is also communicating with lenders, attorneys, inspectors, appraisers, and title companies — making sure every deadline is met and potential issues are addressed early.
The list could go on. But in short? If you want to minimize surprises and stay on track, you’ll want a trusted real estate expert in your corner.
Myth #2: “I Need 20% Down to Buy a Home”
One of the most common real estate myths is that you need 20% down to buy a home. While it’s true that a 20% down payment can help you avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), it’s not a requirement.
In fact, many buyers can get into a home with far less. Depending on your financial profile, you may only need to put down 3–13%. FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down, and VA or USDA loans may require no money down at all.
Just remember: the less you put down, the higher your monthly mortgage payment will be. Talking with your agent and lender can help you understand your options, and choose the right approach for your goals and budget.
Real Estate Myths #3: “Spring and Summer Are the Only Good Times to Buy or Sell”
Spring and summer are definitely busy seasons for real estate — but they’re far from the only times people buy and sell homes.
Contrary to many popular real estate myths, the market is active year-round. And in many cases, the fall and winter months offer unique advantages.
For buyers, off-season means fewer competing offers — which can translate to less stress and more favorable terms. For sellers, listing in the off-season helps you stand out, since motivated buyers tend to be more serious and ready to act.
Myth #4: “I Should Price My Home Higher to Leave Room to Negotiate”
It might sound strategic, but overpricing your home can actually backfire, and it’s one of the most detrimental real estate myths. Today’s buyers are savvy — and a home priced well above market value will often be overlooked.
Correct pricing from the start is one of the most important factors in a successful sale. It leads to more interest, quicker showings, and stronger offers — especially when competition is tight.
But how do you know what the correct pricing is? Your agent will run a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to help you set a price that reflects current trends, recent sales, and buyer behavior. That way, you’re priced to sell — not to sit.
Real Estate Myth #5: “Buying the Cheapest House Saves You the Most Money”
On the flip side of pricing your home too high, the next real estate myth is all about trying to save a buck. A low price tag on a home might seem like a deal — but cheaper doesn’t always mean smarter.
Often, lower-priced homes need significant updates, renovations, or repairs. That can quickly eat into your budget. And if the home is in a less desirable area, you may face higher long-term costs like increased property taxes, higher commute expenses, or lower resale value.
The true value of a home lies in how well it fits your lifestyle and future plans. Consider factors such as proximity to work, schools, amenities, and your overall quality of life. Sometimes, the best investment isn’t the lowest-priced home — it’s the one that checks all the boxes for your needs and offers lasting value.
Myth #6: “My Agent’s Job Is Just to Find Me a House”
Let’s clear up this last real estate myth. If you’re an HGTV fan, you might think your agent should have plenty of homes lined up for you to look at. But in reality, you’ll probably find most of your home options online these days — and that’s totally normal. The real work of your agent starts after you’ve found one you love.
Real estate agents are transaction experts. They manage timelines, negotiate terms, track contingencies, and coordinate everyone involved — from inspectors and lenders to title companies and attorneys. They also help point out red flags, handle roadblocks, and protect your best interests every step of the way.
Wondering About Real Estate Myths? Trust the Process — and Your People at CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate
Real estate doesn’t have to be a confusing, overwhelming experience — not when you’ve got the right information and the right team on your side. From navigating myths and misconceptions to understanding the true value of your agent, being armed with knowledge is the first step toward a successful home buying or selling experience.
At CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate, we’re committed to providing you with expert guidance every step of the way. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an experienced investor, or someone looking to sell in today’s dynamic market, our team is here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
With our local expertise and hands-on support, you’ll have everything you need to make the best decisions for your future. Reach out to us today — we’re here to help you achieve your real estate goals with confidence and clarity.
