Buying your first home in Northern Virginia?
Know what you can afford, which communities fit your budget, and what you should actually pay — before you make an offer.
Buying your first home in Northern Virginia feels like a lot at once — pre-approval, down payment, closing costs, and figuring out which of a dozen towns actually fits your budget. It doesn’t have to.
We’ll show you a realistic purchase range, your estimated monthly payment, and the down-payment and cash-to-close scenarios for FHA, VA, and conventional loans — then point you to the communities where your money goes furthest.
- Estimated purchase range and monthly payment
- Down-payment scenarios (3%, 3.5% FHA, 5%, 20%)
- Estimated closing costs and total cash to close
- First-time buyer programs and grants to ask your lender about
- Target communities for your budget and commute
- A clear next step — no pressure, no spam
Know your real number
A realistic price range and monthly payment based on your income, debts, and down payment — not a bank’s pre-qual ceiling.
FHA vs VA vs conventional
Which loan fits your down payment and credit — and how PMI, rates, and closing costs actually change the math.
Communities that fit
Where your budget buys the most home and commute — from Ashburn townhomes to condos inside the Beltway.
A REALTOR® in your corner
Raoul negotiates the price, credits, and repairs so your first offer isn’t your most expensive mistake.
Build My First-Time Buyer Plan
Tell us a little and Raoul follows up personally — no spam, no call center.
You’ll work with Raoul Shah — in person.
A licensed Virginia REALTOR® with Real Broker LLC, McLean. I represent you from first tour to closing table — and negotiate on your side of the deal.
REALTOR® · Virginia DPOR License 0225274910
Frequently asked
How much do I need for a down payment in Northern Virginia?
FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down and many conventional programs allow 3–5%. On a $500,000 home that’s roughly $17,500–$25,000 down, plus about 2–3% in closing costs. VA loans can allow 0% down for eligible buyers.
FHA or conventional for a first home?
FHA is often easier to qualify for with a lower credit score and down payment but carries mortgage insurance for the life of the loan in most cases. Conventional can be cheaper long-term with 5%+ down and good credit. We’ll run both so you can compare the real monthly cost.
What’s the smallest budget that works in NoVA?
Condos and townhomes in outer Loudoun and Prince William, and condos inside the Beltway, can start around $300K–$450K depending on the market. We’ll show you exactly where your budget lands today.
Ready when you are
Start your plan above, find matching homes, or analyze a specific listing.