Why Work with Paul Sneeringer
- Google Reviews: 4.9 stars (84 five-star reviews)
- Brokerage: Keller Williams Realty
- Based in: Chantilly, VA
- Service Area: Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Prince William counties + Alexandria
- Specialty: First-time buyer programs, patient guidance, education
- Response Time: Same-day, often within 2 hours
- Contact: (571) 233-2763
Picture this: You just got the keys to your first home—a townhouse in Sterling you never thought you could afford. Your rent payments are finally building equity instead of your landlord’s wealth, and you qualified for a Virginia down payment assistance program that covered half your closing costs. That’s what’s possible when you work with an agent who knows first-time buyer programs inside and out.
The Northern Virginia market is fiercely competitive. Homes in Fairfax County average just 9 days on market, and properties that linger past 21 days typically see a 3-5% reduction in sale price. With 68% of homes selling at or above asking, first-time buyers often miss out on their dream homes without expert guidance. The Silver Line expansion has driven prices up 15% in Reston and Herndon since 2022. Loudoun County’s top-rated schools create bidding wars in Ashburn and South Riding. Properties near Metro stations command $50-100K premiums. Without an agent who knows these dynamics intimately, you’re competing blindfolded.
This is exactly why the right agent makes all the difference.
What You Get with Paul as your First Time Home Buyer in Northern Virginia
- Down payment program guidance—Virginia Housing, Fairfax County programs, and more
- Budget reality check—What $450K, $550K, and $650K actually gets you in Sterling, Centreville, and Burke
- FHA vs Conventional analysis—Which loan type saves you more in Northern Virginia
- Patient education—No question is dumb; I explain everything
- Inspection education—What to worry about, what’s normal
- Closing cost negotiation—I fight to get sellers to contribute
Know Your Northern Virginia Market
What First-Time Buyers Can Afford in Northern Virginia
| Budget | Down Payment (3.5% FHA) | What You Get | Best Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| $350-400K | $12,250-$14,000 | Condo/older townhouse | Dale City, Woodbridge |
| $450-500K | $15,750-$17,500 | Townhouse | Sterling, Centreville |
| $500-600K | $17,500-$21,000 | Single-family | Burke, Herndon, Leesburg |
How I Help First-Time Buyers
- Education Call—We cover the basics: affordability, loan types, the full process. No question is too simple.
- Lender Connection—I connect you with first-time buyer specialists who know Virginia Housing programs and Fairfax County assistance.
- Budget-Matched Search—Only homes you can actually afford in areas like Sterling, Centreville, and Burke.
- Patient Showings—As many as you need until you’re confident. First-time buyers often need 10-15 showings, and that’s okay.
- Offer Strategy—How to compete against buyers with bigger down payments. I’ve helped first-timers beat cash offers.
- Hand-Held Closing—I explain every document, every step. No surprises, no confusion.
Is Paul the Right Fit for You?
I’m a Great Fit If You:
- Want patient guidance through the entire homebuying process
- Value education over pressure—you have questions, I have answers
- Are open to down payment assistance programs and first-time buyer loans
- Appreciate an agent who explains every document and every step
I Might Not Be Right If You:
- Already know everything about buying and don’t want advice
- Expect to buy a $1M home on a $50K salary
- Aren’t willing to get pre-approved before touring homes
- Want an agent who will rush you into a decision
Frequently Asked Questions About First Time Home Buyer in Northern Virginia
Most first-time buyers can qualify for an FHA loan, requiring just 3.5% down. For a $450K home, that’s about $15,750. Virginia also offers down payment assistance programs, which can significantly reduce upfront costs for buyers.
In Virginia, you typically need a credit score of at least 620 for conventional loans and 580 for FHA loans. Improving your score can help you secure better financing options and lower interest rates.
FHA loans are great for those with lower credit scores and smaller down payments. Conventional loans, while requiring higher down payments, can lead to less overall debt in the long run, especially if credit scores are strong.
Affordability depends on your income, savings, and local housing costs. A general rule is that your housing expenses shouldn’t exceed 30% of your gross income. I can provide affordability assessments based on your specific situation.
Virginia offers several programs for first-time buyers, including down payment assistance, closing cost grants, and favorable loan terms through Virginia Housing. I can help you navigate these options to find the best fit for you.
Closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price. For a $450K home, that would be between $9,000 and $22,500. Many first-time buyers can negotiate for sellers to contribute to these costs as part of the purchase agreement.
This depends on your lifestyle and budget. Condos may offer lower maintenance but come with homeowner association fees, while single-family homes provide more space and potential for investment appreciation.
First-time buyers can strengthen offers by providing substantial earnest money, being flexible with closing dates, and collaborating with a knowledgeable buyer’s agent who understands the local market dynamics.
Related Services
Explore other ways I can help with your Northern Virginia real estate needs:
- Need a buyer’s agent? See Buyer’s Agent services
- Browse Homes for Sale in your budget
- Moving from out of state? Relocation Agent services
- Full-service help? Work with a Northern Virginia Realtor
First Time Home Buyer Service Areas in Northern Virginia
Paul Sneeringer serves Chantilly and cities throughout Northern Virginia.
Chantilly & Nearby
- Chantilly ⭐ Home Base
- Centreville
- Fairfax
- Falls Church
- Annandale
Fairfax County
Arlington County
Loudoun County
Prince William County
Don’t see your city? Call (571) 233-2763 to confirm coverage.
Ready to Buy Your First Home in Northern Virginia?
Get patient guidance through every step—plus access to programs that could save you thousands.
Free Consultation • Same-Day Response • No Pressure
