Buying your first home in Virginia?
Know what you can afford, which communities fit your budget, and what you should actually pay — anywhere in Virginia, from Northern Virginia to Richmond, Hampton Roads and beyond — before you make an offer.
First-Time Buyers in Virginia — what to know
Buying your first home in 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, whether that’s Northern Virginia, Richmond, or Hampton Roads.
- 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
No forms, no call center. Text Raoul and you'll hear back — ask about any property or just where to start.
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 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 Virginia?
It depends on the market — condos and townhomes in outer Loudoun and Prince William or inside the Beltway can start around $300K–$450K, while parts of Richmond and Hampton Roads may reach further. We’ll show you exactly where your budget lands today.
Ready when you are
No obligation, and it reaches Raoul directly — text any property or question to (703) 570-1074 and you'll get answers back.