Go to the shops instead!

[simgrapes]

I don't think there should be a buy mode. All homes you purchase and move into would be pre-built and furnished, either by EA, or players, using a separate create a home mode, with an unlimited inventory. Ounce you move in, players will then be able to buy new items in two fashions. Small items would be bought in local shops and then placed in the purchasing sim's inventory. Larger items would be ordered online or over the phone, then within a few minutes a truck will arrive, and the player would be prompted to use the hand of god to place the item where ever they see fit. For cars though, you should be able to take your sims to a dealership and test drive, purchase, and drive one home. I think there should still be an in game build mode so that you can add additions to your home on the fly, although maybe you should only be able to do so after calling a contractor.