Every homebuyer enters the process with a list of wants and needs, and most buyers expect their wish list to be fulfilled. But it’s not as easy as the wave of a magic wand. These common homebuying expectations (and their realistic counterparts) are just a bit of what you can expect as a new homeowner.

Expectation: There will be someone available to answer all of my questions twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Reality: Though the internet is a wonderful resource, it’s no replacement for a seasoned professional. If an important question pops into your head at 3:00 a.m., be sure to write it down so that you can come back to it at a more reasonable time.

Expectation: If I put a bid on a home that is far above the asking price, it has to be mine.

Reality: Although a generous bid could increase your chances of securing the home you want, it’s not a guarantee. A professional can advise you on exactly how much to bid and can help keep you calm in this often tense situation.

Expectation: Once I’ve found a house I like, the process should be as simple as placing an offer, closing the sale, and moving in.

Reality: The homebuying process is exciting, especially for first-timers. But the truth is there are a lot of factors that go into the biggest purchase of your life—and not just the financials. When all is said and done, it takes some buyers more than a year to settle in to a new space.

Expectation: The internet and apps have made the process so easy—I could probably do it by myself.

Reality: Technology has certainly changed the real estate industry in recent years, but, while it might be easier to keep up with the market because of it, there’s no replacement for the knowledge a professional can bring to the table.