First-Time Home Buyers in Northern Virginia

Buying your first home in Northern Virginia can feel like a lot: high prices, fast-moving homes and a stack of new words. I have helped first-time buyers here since 2003, and my job is to make it feel doable. You will know what to expect at every step, what it will cost, and where you can get help paying for it.

3%Minimum down on some conventional loans for first-time buyers

3.5%Minimum down on an FHA loan

0%Down on a VA loan for eligible veterans and service members

You do not need 20% down. Your lender will confirm which loans you qualify for.

Your Path to Your First Home

1
Check Your Credit and Budget
Pull your free credit reports and think about a monthly payment you are comfortable with, not just the most a lender will approve. My Mortgage Guide walks you through it.
2
Get Pre-Approved
A pre-approval shows what you can borrow and tells sellers you are serious. I am happy to connect you with our lender partner, Terry Schenck, or a lender of your choice.
3
Sign a Buyer Agreement
Before we tour homes, you will sign a written buyer agreement. It spells out what I do for you and how I am paid. Read more about buyer agreements in Virginia.
4
Tour Homes and Make an Offer
We set up a search that fits your wish list and budget. When you find the one, I pull recent sales so your offer is strong and smart, not just high.
5
From Contract to Keys
Inspections, appraisal, loan approval and closing. I coordinate all of it and keep you posted. See You Bought a House, Now What? for what happens after you are under contract.

The Money You Will Need

Brick colonial home with a front porch in Northern Virginia

Down payment. Often 3% to 5% for first-time buyers. Down payments are smaller than you think.
Earnest money. A good-faith deposit when your offer is accepted, credited back at closing. See how much earnest money to plan for.
Home inspection. Paid up front, and worth every penny.
Closing costs. Lender, title and county fees. See Closing Costs and how much cash you need to close.

Help Paying for Your First Home

Several programs help first-time buyers in Northern Virginia with down payments, closing costs or lower rates. Each has its own income and price limits, and the rules change, so check with your lender before you count on one.

Virginia Housing

The state's housing agency offers first-time buyer loans and a down payment assistance grant you never repay, through approved lenders. It also offers a free homebuyer education class.

Learn more

Fairfax County First-Time Homebuyers Program

Sells homes well below market price to moderate-income buyers through a lottery. Homes come with long-term rules on living there and resale, so read the details first.

Learn more

Loudoun County Homeownership Programs

Forgivable help with down payment and closing costs, plus a lower-rate loan program, for first-time buyers who live or work in Loudoun.

Learn more

Gift Funds

Many loans let family members help with your down payment. Your lender will tell you how to document a gift so it doesn't slow down your approval.

First-Time Buyer FAQ

Do I count as a first-time buyer?

Usually, yes, if you have not owned a home in the past three years, even if you owned one before that. Each program defines it a little differently, so ask your lender.

Do I really need 20% down?

No. Many first-time buyers put down 3% to 5%, and eligible veterans can put down nothing. Putting down less than 20% usually means paying mortgage insurance, which your lender can explain.

How long does it take to buy a home?

Once you are under contract, closing usually takes about 30 to 45 days. The search before that depends on the market and how flexible you can be.

Can I buy a home if I have student loans?

Often, yes. Lenders look at your total monthly debt compared to your income. A lender can tell you exactly where you stand.

Let's Talk About Your First Home

No pressure and no question is too basic. Call me at 703-969-0471 and we will map out your plan together.

Mortgage Guide