If you’re in your 20s and dreaming of owning a home, scrolling through national real estate news can be downright depressing. Headlines scream about record-high prices and soaring interest rates, making it feel like the American Dream is on permanent hold. Many young professionals and growing families feel completely priced out of the market, believing homeownership is a goal for their 40s, not their 30s.
The key isn’t just finding a higher salary—it’s about being in the right market. A new study from LendingTree analyzed where adults under 30 are successfully getting mortgages, and the results are a game-changer for Virginians. It turns out, the path to homeownership isn’t closed; it’s just located in more affordable, strategic metros.
For buyers, this data is empowering. It shifts the focus from “I can’t afford anything” to “Here’s where my budget can work.” And for you, as a prospective buyer in Virginia, there’s fantastic news right here in our state. You don’t have to move across the country to find opportunity.
Let’s look at the numbers. The study ranks the 50 largest metros by the share of adults under 30 with a mortgage. Notice anything about Virginia?
- Virginia Beach claims the #9 spot, with 4.9% of its young adults holding mortgages—ahead of cities like Denver, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C.
- Richmond, meanwhile, ranks near the bottom at #43, with only 2.1%.
What does this prove?
It highlights that the Hampton Roads area, including Virginia Beach, offers a realistic and achievable path to homeownership for the next generation. These leading markets typically feature:
- Median home prices that are manageable relative to local incomes.
- Strong, diversified economies in sectors like military, tourism, and healthcare that provide stable jobs.
- More flexible down-payment assistance programs that help bridge the gap for first-time buyers.
The contrast with coastal giants like San Jose (0.8%) and New York (1.2%) is stark. It’s not that young people in Virginia Beach are richer; it’s that the market here is structured for their success.
What This Means for You in Williamsburg and the Greater Hampton Roads
While Williamsburg itself is a unique and historic market, it is lumped in with Virginia Beach and the rest of Hampton Roads as part of this analysis. It shows that Hampton Roads, which includes seven cities and counties, continues to be a region where hard work can still lead to owning a piece of the American Dream at a young age.
The secret is out.
Markets in the South and Midwest dominate the top of this list because they’ve maintained their affordability and quality of life. Virginia Beach is leading the charge for our state, proving that you can have a vibrant coastal lifestyle without the California or New York price tag.
Ready to stop renting and start building equity? The data proves it’s possible here—and I’m here to prove it to you.
If you’re feeling motivated by these numbers, let’s talk.
In just 30 minutes, you will get a clear, actionable plan that includes:
- A Clear Budget: Cut through the confusion and get a clear picture of what you can afford.
- Access to Local Programs: Discover down-payment assistance and first-time buyer programs you likely qualify for.
- Your Custom Game Plan: We’ll map out the exact steps to go from looking online to holding your keys.
Stop wondering if you can and find out HOW you will.
I specialize in helping young adults and first-time buyers navigate the local market, find the right programs, and secure a home they love and can afford.
Your dream home in Coastal Virginia isn’t a fantasy.
Let’s make it your address.
Your Friend in Real Estate,
Brad Anderson
(757) 816-2968
bradandersonrealestate@gmail.com
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Hi, I’m Brad Anderson!
Hey there, future homeowner—
I’m Brad Anderson, and I’m not just a Realtor—I’m a dad, a neighbor, and your trusted partner in one of life’s biggest decisions: finding a home where your family can truly thrive.
As a parent myself, I know what’s on your mind: good schools, safe neighborhoods, parks nearby, and a home that fits your life and your budget. You’re not just looking for a house—you’re looking for a place to build memories.
That’s exactly why I’ve dedicated my career to helping growing families like yours navigate the Williamsburg and Greater Hampton Roads real estate market with confidence—not confusion.
Discover more from Brad Anderson - Williamsburg Realtor
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