Are You Too Young to Buy a House?

Dusty Rhodes • November 25, 2024

Owning a house is often a symbol of financial security. However, purchasing a home requires a young buyer to navigate new financial hurdles and lifestyle commitments. The process can be daunting if you’re trying to balance rising housing costs with a new career and obligations like student loan debt. 


If you’re ready to start house hunting, this article will help put you on the path toward homeownership. 


Is There a Minimum Age for Homeownership?


In most states, you must be 18 to own a house. In Alabama and Nebraska, you must be 19, and in Mississippi, you must be 21. 


Someone younger could technically have their name put on a home title, such as in the case of inheritance. However, most states don’t allow minors to own, manage or sell a home until they reach the age of majority. 


What Is the Average Age to Buy a House?


The median age of first-time homebuyers has reached an all-time high of 38, according to the 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers from the National Association of Realtors (NAR).


That’s roughly a decade older than the average age in the 1980s when most first-time buyers were in their late 20s.


Overcoming Financial Hurdles: Challenges for Young Homebuyers


These are the common obstacles that young homebuyers may face when trying to break into the real estate market.


  • Down payment and closing costs: Many buyers can put down as little as 3% to 5% to secure a home loan. However, a down payment and closing costs can pose a significant barrier to entry for young people. The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis indicates that the median home price in the U.S. is $420,400, which means a 3% down payment would be $12,612.
  • Your credit score: Regardless of age, one of the most significant challenges to homebuying is getting a good interest rate. A low interest rate will hinge on a good credit score, which takes time to build. Many young people may only just be opening their first credit cards in their late teens and early 20s. A short credit history can also hinder a lender’s willingness to issue a mortgage. 
  • Debt-to-income ratio: A young person who is just starting their career may not have a very high salary and could still have personal, student or car loans to pay off. Lenders will want to see a good debt-to-income ratio when providing a mortgage. 


Advantages of Being a Young Homebuyer


Purchasing real estate at a young age has many benefits, including building equity in your home and the potential for its value to appreciate over time. 


The Financial Benefits of Early Homeownership


Real estate is an investment that reliably appreciates over time. Those who buy young can often build more equity over the lifetime of their investment. 


“Every time you wait to buy, there is a gap in pricing,” explains Nikola Cejic, a real estate agent in East Hampton, New York, who purchased his first home while in high school. “Those who wait keep chasing the market and falling behind.” 

Homeowners are eligible for more significant tax advantages than renters. They can often write off home-related expenses, including state and local real estate taxes and home mortgage interest. 


Buying a Home Is a Long-Term Investment 


Real estate is America’s favorite long-term investment, according to Gallup. Compared to stocks or gold, it continues to be the primary way Americans invest. Investing in a home also gives you a tangible asset to pass on to future generations. 

NAR research reveals similar findings in its 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers:

  • 79% believe a home purchase is a wise investment
  • 39% said buying a home is better than owning stock


Predictable Costs: The Stability of Mortgage Payments


Unlike rent, your mortgage payment will be the same every month for the life of the loan. NAR indicates that 91% of first-time buyers finance their home purchase, and a mortgage is often the most costly payment an owner will make. As a result, many people find value in knowing exactly what they’ll pay every month.


However, some hidden costs of homeownership will continue to rise. These include utilities, property taxes, homeowners insurance and maintenance. Residents of homeowners associations may also see their fees increase over time.


Life Planning


Buying a home is often considered an excellent financial investment, but it’s also an investment in your lifestyle. Many homeowners prefer to own simply because it allows them more control over their residence, from paint and interior design to building a shed in the backyard. A home can also provide a sense of stability for families. 


Potential Drawbacks for Young Homebuyers 


While buying young can have significant financial benefits for those who can afford it, it’s common for young people to experience uncertainty in the future. 


Financial Strain: A Major Hurdle for Young Homebuyers 


It’s very common for young people to experience financial hardship. For those who pursue a degree, the average federal student loan borrower has over $37,000 in debt. On top of that, those who are new to the workforce typically have not reached the salaries of those 10 or more years into their field. 


The upfront costs associated with homebuying, including the down payment and closing costs, are often cited as the most significant barrier to entry. Additionally, being a homeowner means you are on the hook for any maintenance required on the property.

“You have a lot more maintenance to manage, whether that’s hiring someone or doing it yourself,” says Nikki Taylor Friedman, a real estate agent in Huntington, New York, who purchased her first home at age 25. “In addition to the mortgage payment, there are additional costs. You’re going to have to pay for wifi and utilities wherever you live, but when you own you have to pay for the landscaping, painting and staining, if a window breaks – those things are your responsibility.” 


Lifestyle Limitations: The Trade-offs of Early Homeownership


Buying a home ties you more closely to a specific geographic area. If you’re seeking a new job opportunity, relocating may be more challenging as you’ll need to either rent your home or prepare it for sale. 


Uncertainty of the Future


Young people commonly don’t have a clear understanding of what their future holds. 


“If you’re looking to purchase and you’re not sure what your life is going to look like in five years, maybe buying a big single-family home is not the ideal situation for you,” Friedman says. “But there are many ways to look at it. Can you sell and make a profit? We’ll never know what the market will look like five years from now, but we can look at the history of the cycle and determine whether or not this is going to be a good long-term investment for the buyer.” 


Are You Ready to Buy a Home?


Ultimately, whether or not you’re too young to purchase a home has more to do with financial and lifestyle readiness than age alone. 


Financial Stability


Thoroughly evaluate your finances before starting the search. You must understand your income, debt-to-income ratio, credit score and savings if you plan to buy a home. 


“You don’t want to be cash poor and on-paper rich,” Cejic says. “You don’t want to overextend yourself.” He suggests that your fixed monthly expenses should not exceed 33% of your income. This includes the monthly mortgage payment, insurance and property taxes, as well as any outstanding debt, such as student and car loans. Having three to six months of living expenses in savings is also wise. 


Lifestyle Considerations


Consider your lifestyle and what you want in a home before starting your search. This includes factors such as location, home type and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. It also means evaluating whether or not you’re prepared to take on the financial responsibility of homeownership and property maintenance. 


If you are in a relationship, you and your partner must discuss your needs and wants and your long-term financial and lifestyle goals. 


Speak with the Experts

Purchasing a home is a significant financial decision. Consider speaking with a financial advisor or lender to determine if you’re ready to buy. Familiarize yourself with the steps involved in getting a mortgage. Consult local builders, real estate agents, and trusted friends and family who’ve recently purchased property in the same area. 


Don’t Feel Pressure to Buy 

There is often external pressure to purchase a home. Sometimes, this comes from family members, but it can also come from peers. You must feel confident in your decision to buy a house. If the desire mostly comes from a need to impress others, it’s worth it to reconsider. 


Alternatives to Homeownership


If you cannot afford the purchase price of a single-family home, or it’s simply not the right time, there are alternatives.


  • Living with family: If you have a family member you can live with, doing so can help you save money to purchase a home in the future. 
  • Renting: Renting is an excellent option if you aren’t ready for homeownership or want to live a more urban lifestyle. 
  • Multi-family residences: If you can’t afford a single-family home, consider purchasing a condominium or townhome. 
  • Buy with a friend: Cejic says, “If you and your best friend have been renting together, why not go in on a home together and put it in an LLC or a trust? It will build equity for you both, then later down the line you can sell and purchase on your own.” 


A rent-to-own property is an alternative that buyers will likely not be able to find in today’s housing market. Rent-to-own refers to a legal arrangement where a tenant pays rent to a landlord and can purchase the property later. “Sellers aren’t looking for that option right now,” Friedman says. “They don’t have to rent because they can find a buyer who could buy flat out.” 


The Bottom Line: When Do People Buy a House?


Ultimately, the decision to buy a home has less to do with age and more to do with your circumstances and financial goals. While the dream of homeownership can be enticing, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully. You must understand the financial implications, lifestyle considerations, and potential challenges to help you make an informed decision.



Source: Homes.com



Dusty Rhodes Properties is the Best Realtor in Myrtle Beach! We do everything in our power to help you find the home of your dreams. With experience, expertise, and passion, we are the perfect partner for you in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. We love what we do and it shows. With more than 22 years of experience in the field, we know our industry like the back of our hands. There’s no challenge too big or too small, and we dedicate our utmost energy to every project we take on. We search thousands of the active and new listings from Aynor, Carolina Forest, Conway, Garden City Beach, Longs, Loris, Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, and Surfside Beach real estate listings to find the hottest deals just for you!

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How to Move Out After Selling a House

By Dusty Rhodes • October 13, 2025
From the first coat of paint you used to freshen up your house’s trim to the stress of wrangling your way to a deal, you’ve been through a lot in that place. Now you’ve made it to the final hurdle of selling a home: moving out! Don’t worry, this is the easy part… but you want to do it right. Here’s how to get through the last leg of your journey without any bumps along the way. How to move out on time Once the paperwork is signed at closing, the buyers will officially own the house—and you won’t. That means that, technically, if you or your stuff is still there after the close, “the buyer could evict you,” says Joshua Jarvis , founder of Jarvis Team Realty in Duluth, GA. So make sure to have your exit strategy in place! Still, most buyers will understand if you need a bit more time and have a legitimate reason—like if you can’t move until the weekend due to your work schedule. Just be sure to discuss these issues as soon as possible before the close, so your buyers can plan accordingly. Decide what to leave behind To make sure you’re leaving behind everything the buyer wanted—and that you agreed to—double-check the closing documents . There should be an itemized list of what comes with the house . And even if the buyers didn’t formally request them, it’s just good form to leave certain types of things behind. Such as? “Generally speaking, you should leave anything that’s bolted to the wall,” says Jarvis. “Some homeowners want to take their fans and blinds to the next home, but generally if it’s screwed in, it stays.” Also, if you and the buyers agreed to transfer any services—such as alarm monitoring or pest control —be sure to set that up before you go. Leave the buyers a detailed note in the house, or ask your agent to get in touch with theirs to make sure the transfer goes smoothly. If you do inadvertently take an item that the buyers had requested, they have the right to ask for it back—and they could potentially sue you in civil court for the cost of a replacement. So, when in doubt, feel free to check with the buyers before you grab and go. But don’t leave anything else behind Just as important as what you leave behind is what you don’t. Your buyers have a right to move into a home that’s been cleared of furniture and other movable items they didn’t expressly request. “Some folks leave all kinds of unwanted clothes, furniture, paint cans, and other items, thinking they are helping the buyers,” Jarvis says. If you truly think your buyers might love to have your old planting pots or kiddie equipment, go ahead and ask—but please don’t assume they’ll welcome your leftovers. Even if you’re careful, you might forget something—at which point the buyers may contact their agent to get it back to you, but they also have the legal right to just keep or get rid of it. So double-check areas (e.g., the attic, garage, basement, storage shed, kitchen, and bathroom drawers) where people commonly overlook items. Clean up It’s common courtesy to leave the place not only clear of your possessions but also clean. However, that doesn’t mean you have to leave it immaculate. “Generally, you shouldn’t have to pay to have it deep cleaned,” Jarvis says. In most cases, a simple broom-clean will do. That means wiping down the countertops, cleaning out drawers, sweeping or vacuuming all the floors, and giving the bathroom and kitchen appliances a once-over so the new owners aren’t grossed out when they arrive. Are you forgetting anything? Before you close the door for the last time, run through a quick checklist. Did you eyeball every room for stray items? Have you forwarded your mail and turned off the utilities? Is the water running in the jacuzzi? We all get in a bit of a rush even in the best planned moves, but you won’t be able to get back in, so it can’t hurt to do a final run-through before you move out. Once you’re ready, it’s time to leave. You can drop a line to your real estate agent to let them know you’re out, although it’s usually a courtesy more than a necessity. If you’re feeling truly gracious, feel free to leave a note, card, or bottle of bubbly congratulating the people who’ve inherited your former home. Given all the fond memories you’ve built between those walls, wouldn’t it be nice to start the home’s new owners off on the right foot? And buy yourself some Champagne, too. Make it the good stuff—you’ve earned it. 

When Are You Considered a First-Time Homebuyer Again?

By Dusty Rhodes • October 6, 2025
Buying a home is an exciting time, whether this is your first time purchasing a house or you’re a repeat buyer. But if you’ve owned a home before, you may be wondering if you can be a first-time home buyer again. In some cases, yes, you can. In this Redfin article, we’ll go over what qualifications you need to meet and when you can be considered a first-time homebuyer again. Whether you’re buying a home in Atlanta, GA , or a condo in Portland, OR , read on to find out if you’re eligible to be a first-time homebuyer twice. Key takeaways Usually, you’re a first-time homebuyer again if you haven’t owned a home in 3 years. Some special situations may also qualify you as a first-time buyer. Benefits include down payment and closing cost assistance and lower interest rates. When are you considered a first-time homebuyer again? Typically, you’re considered a first-time homebuyer again if you have not owned a primary residence for at least three years. There are several additional reasons you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer again, which we’ll explore below. Some first-time homebuyer programs have different definitions of “first-time homebuyer,” so check with the specific program before proceeding. Qualifications to be considered a first-time homebuyer There are other reasons you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer twice. Let’s take a look at them: You haven’t owned a primary residence for 3 years: This means if you owned a home, but sold it and rented for 3 (or more) years, you can be considered a first-time home buyer again. If you’re buying with another person, only one of you needs to meet the criteria to use most first-time home buyer programs. You’re a single-parent buying on your own: If you’ve never purchased a home by yourself and are a divorced single-parent, you may qualify again. Even if you purchased a home with your former spouse, you likely still meet the criteria. You’re a displaced homemaker/family caregiver: If you are a displaced homemaker who doesn’t or didn’t earn wages from employment and has only owned a home with a former spouse, you’re likely considered a first-time homebuyer. You previously owned a mobile home: If you owned a mobile home or property not affixed to a foundation, then you likely qualify. Your previous home was out of compliance: If your home had building code violations or safety issues that could not be repaired or brought into compliance for less than the home’s value, you’re likely eligible. Benefits of being a first-time homebuyer again There are benefits to being a first-time homebuyer twice. Let’s take a look at them: Access to first-time homebuyer programs: One of the biggest benefits is the ability to use first-time homebuyer programs such as down payment and closing cost assistance , grants, credits, or loans. Every program has different qualifications, so make sure to research each program or speak with your agent and lender to explore options. Options for low down payment mortgages: There are several loans available for first-time buyers that offer lower down payment amounts. For example, Freddie Mac’s Home Possible and Fannie Mae’s Home Ready offer down payment amounts as low as 3%. Potentially lower mortgage rates: Sometimes, lenders will offer slightly lower mortgage rates to first-time borrowers to help them buy their first home. FAQs about first-time homebuyers Can I be a first-time homebuyer again if I previously owned a home? Yes, as long as you haven’t owned a primary residence in the last 3 years, or you owned a home while previously married. Do both homebuyers need to be first-time homebuyers to qualify? No, in most cases, as long as one homebuyer meets the qualifying criteria, then you’re considered a first-time homebuyer. However, some programs require both homebuyers to be first-timers. Can I qualify for a first-time homebuyer loan again? Yes, for the most part, if you qualify as a “first-time homebuyer,” you can get another first-time homebuyer loan. Every lender and loan is different, so be sure to read the eligibility criteria thoroughly. Are there income limits for programs? Yes, many first-time homebuyer programs have income limits. This means you won’t qualify if you make more than the specified annual amount.

10 Home Renovation Projects Under $1,000 That Add Lasting Value

By Dusty Rhodes • September 29, 2025
Enhancing your living space doesn’t always require a hefty budget. With the right updates, you can add real value to your home for under $1,000. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home in Grand Rapids, MI , or looking for some easy DIY projects for your house in Portland, OR , these cost-effective upgrades can breathe new life into your space. To dig deeper into this topic, we spoke with Kevin Brasler, executive editor at nonprofit Consumers’ Checkbook , a consumer advocacy group that helps homeowners save money and make smart choices. With decades of experience evaluating service providers, Kevin shares insights on how to budget wisely, avoid common renovation mistakes, and know when to hire a professional versus taking the DIY route. 1. Add fresh paint to the walls of your home Painting is one of the most affordable ways to refresh your home. A gallon of quality paint costs $30 to $50, with a full room averaging around $350 . Neutral shades like gray, beige, or white appeal to most buyers, while accent colors such as navy, forest green, or mustard add personality. For a calming vibe, try sage or powder blue. Brasler notes that painting is one of the best DIY-friendly projects homeowners can take on. “Good DIY projects are those that involve mostly labor: painting, basic tile work, installing fixtures that don’t require new wiring or plumbing, landscaping, and most flooring jobs,” he says. 2. Update your cabinet hardware A cabinet hardware update is a subtle yet effective strategy to elevate your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Swapping outdated or generic cabinet handles and knobs for modern, stylish alternatives instantly transforms kitchens and bathrooms. Consider sleek brushed nickel handles for a contemporary touch, or opt for vintage-inspired brass knobs for a timeless charm. This modest investment typically costs between $2 to $10 per piece. 3. Change the kitchen backsplash A new backsplash can quickly refresh your kitchen while protecting your walls. A custom kitchen backsplash protects your walls from daily wear and creates a focal point that elevates the entire room. Opt for affordable ceramic or glass tiles, which can be found for as low as $1 to $5 per square foot. Staying within a $1,000 budget for a standard-sized kitchen is doable with those materials. Or you can go for a peel-and-stick backsplash that is not only budget-friendly, but a quick solution to make your kitchen stand out. Brasler stresses that getting multiple estimates is critical for even small-scale projects like this. “The biggest mistake homeowners make is not getting multiple bids. Even for smaller projects, you should get at least three written estimates; five is better,” he explains. 4. Switch to energy-efficient lighting By making the switch to energy-efficient lighting, you’ll not only improve the sustainability of your home but also create a more comfortable and inviting living environment. Switching to LED bulbs, which typically cost between $2 to $10 each, saves energy and reduces utility bills over time. Beyond the financial benefits, the crisp and vibrant illumination of energy-efficient lighting can effortlessly enhance your home’s overall mood and appeal. 5. Create a beautiful landscape A simple landscaping update is another low-cost project that adds value. Try planting vibrant flowers, shrubs, and trees, which can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on the size and variety. Add mulch or decorative stones to create a polished look for approximately $50 to $150, while adding affordable outdoor lighting options typically range from $50 to $200. Low-maintenance features lower costs down while still making a strong impression. For most landscaping updates, DIY is both practical and cost-effective. Still, Brasler advises calling in professionals for anything involving gas, high-voltage electrical, or structural work. 6. Install a smart thermostat A smart thermostat, such as popular models like Nest or Ecobee, typically costs between $150 to $300, depending on the brand and features. Homeowners can often handle the installation themselves, avoiding additional labor costs. Once installed, these intelligent devices learn your preferences, allowing for automated temperature adjustments, and can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps. 7. Refurbish or paint the front door Refresh your curb appeal by refurbishing or painting the front door – a low-cost project with instant impact. Sanding and restaining often costs under $100 and requires just a few materials. Another choice is to use high-quality exterior paint, which typically ranges from $30 to $50 per gallon, providing a fresh, vibrant color that suits your home’s style. 8. Add floating shelves or built-ins Consider adding floating shelves or built-in storage solutions to maximize space and keep your home organized. Floating shelves, available for as little as $20 to $50 per shelf, provide an affordable and stylish way to showcase decor or organize essentials. For a more customized approach, DIY built-ins can be crafted using plywood or ready-to-assemble shelving units, typically ranging from $100 to $300. 9. Upgrade your kitchen sink and faucet Breathe new life into your kitchen with a sink and faucet upgrade. Faucets usually run $100 to $300, and sinks $200 to $500. Consider a sleek pull-down faucet and a resilient stainless steel or granite composite sink to improve both function and style. Spending $300 to $800 on a sink and faucet upgrade can instantly refresh your kitchen’s look and make daily tasks easier. 10. Add safety measures to protect your home Smart security cameras or a basic surveillance system now offer affordable and effective protection. Investing in a home surveillance system, typically from $200 to $500, allows real-time monitoring and deterrence against potential threats. The addition of smart cameras, with features like motion detection and remote access via smartphone apps, can improve your home’s overall safety and convenience. With a budget-conscious investment of $500 to $1,000, you can create a comprehensive security network covering critical areas of your property. Tips for finding good contractors Even for smaller projects, working with contractors requires careful planning. Brasler emphasizes the value of comparison shopping. “Get proposals and detailed pricing from at least three reputable, licensed contractors,” he advises. “The only way to ensure you’re paying a fair price is to initiate competition.” He also suggests: Check references thoroughly. Ask questions like: Did the company follow plans? Did it finish on time? Was the work professional? Did the contractor offer low-cost solutions and stick to agreed prices? Were problems handled promptly and effectively? Did the team communicate clearly throughout the project? Was disruption to your daily life kept to a minimum? Did the finished results meet your expectations for quality and appearance? Was the contractor flexible and fair about changes if you adjusted plans? Ask neighbors and friends for referrals. Word-of-mouth often uncovers the best local contractors. Look for complaints. Check ratings at Checkbook.org or your local Better Business Bureau and be cautious with online reviews as they can’t always be trusted. Common mistakes when budgeting for small renovations Brasler states the biggest budgeting mistake is skipping multiple bids. “A contractor charging $800 might be using premium materials while the $500 bid uses builder-grade stuff. Try to get prices from each business for the exact same work,” he explains. He also reminds homeowners not to assume that a low price means low quality. “For decades we have evaluated all kinds of businesses and often find some of the best companies have the lowest prices,” he says. When to DIY vs. hire a pro While DIY saves money, Brasler stresses knowing your limits. “Call in pros to deal with anything involving gas, high-voltage electrical, or structural changes. Ditto for work that requires a permit and inspection,” he advises. For tasks like painting, basic landscaping, or adding shelves, homeowners can usually manage on their own. Keep expectations realistic since DIY projects often take longer and may not match professional results. The bottom line Budget-friendly renovations under $1,000 can make a big difference in your home’s look, comfort, and value. From painting and landscaping to updating fixtures and adding smart technology, these projects prove you don’t need to overspend to refresh your space. As Brasler reminds homeowners, “the key is balancing creativity with caution.” By comparing bids, avoiding common budgeting mistakes, and knowing when to call in the pros, you can achieve lasting results without stretching your wallet.