"You need 20% down."
Not even close. FHA loans start at 3.5% down, some conventional loans at 3%, and VA loans can be 0% down. Some rural areas around Petersburg, Chesterfield, and Dinwiddie also qualify for USDA's 0% down loans.
first-time buyers
Buying your first home in Petersburg & Chesterfield
Most first-time buyers I meet think they need way more saved than they do. Let's find out what you actually need, then take it one step at a time.
3.5%FHA down payment, and some loans go to 0%
here's the plan
How buying your first home works
Six steps from "just looking" to keys in your hand. I'll be with you for every one.
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Week 1
Tell me your goals
Fill out my quick questionnaire, then we'll hop on a free call to talk budget, timeline, must-haves, and the towns that fit your life.
Start the questionnaire -
Week 1 to 2
Get pre-approved
I'll connect you with a local lender who checks your income and credit, explains your loan options, and tells you exactly what you're pre-approved for. That's your magic number, and it's what we use to shop for homes. It usually takes a day or two once your documents are in.
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When you're ready
Tour homes, resale or new
We'll tour in person or on video if you're still out of state. I'll point out what's worth fixing, what's a red flag, and what the same money buys in the next town over.
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The fun part
Write an offer that works
Price is only one piece. We can ask the seller to cover some of your closing costs, set inspection terms, and pick a closing date about 30 days out that fits your timeline.
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First 10 days under contract
Inspection and appraisal
A licensed inspector goes through the house top to bottom. If something comes up, we'll talk through it together and decide whether to negotiate repairs or potentially a credit. Then the lender's appraisal confirms the home is worth the price.
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Typically about 30 days from start to finish
Closing day
Final walkthrough, sign the papers, get your keys. Then the best part: your closing day photo.
wait, really?
Things first-time buyers get told that aren't true
"Your credit has to be perfect."
It doesn't. Many loan programs work with scores in the low 600s, and FHA can go lower. A lender can show you what to fix first if you're close.
"You pay every closing cost yourself."
The seller can pay some of them. We can ask for it in your offer, within your loan's limits. Virginia Housing also has a closing cost grant for eligible buyers.
"New construction is out of reach."
Builders want first-time buyers. Many offer incentives like closing cost help or a lower rate, especially when you have an agent negotiating for you from the first visit.
Down payment help
Virginia Housing programs worth asking about
These change during the year, so your lender confirms what's open when you're ready.
2–2.5%Down payment assistance grant for eligible first-time buyers. Never repaid.
Up to 2%Closing cost grant for eligible buyers using certain government-backed loans.
0% downPossible with the Plus Second Mortgage, which covers your down payment as a separate loan.
All programs require a Virginia Housing loan and have income and price limits. Front Range Heroes buyers (military, healthcare, teachers, and first responders) can also get a commission rebate and lender credits. See the program.
from my buyers
First home, no pressure
Very patient, gave great information, and does not make you feel like they are forcing you into a home.
★★★★★
Richard C. · First-time buyer · Google reviewShe took the time to understand our needs, answered every question we had, and made what could have been a stressful process feel smooth and manageable.
★★★★★
Sean C. · Google reviewJust want to look around first?
Browse every home for sale in Petersburg, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, and Dinwiddie, updated straight from the MLS.
good questions
First-time buyer FAQ
How much money do I need to buy a home in Petersburg, VA?
Less than most people think. FHA loans start at 3.5% down, some conventional loans at 3%, and VA and USDA loans can be 0% down. Plan for closing costs too, usually 2% to 5% of the price, though Virginia Housing grants and seller-paid closing costs can cover some or all of that.
What credit score do I need to buy a house?
Many loan programs work with scores in the low 600s, and FHA can go lower. A local lender can tell you exactly where you stand and what would raise your options.
How long does it take to buy a home?
Once you're under contract, closing typically takes about 30 days from start to finish. The search before that depends on you. Some buyers find a home in two weeks, others take a few months.
How does paying a buyer's agent work?
We'll talk through my compensation together before we ever tour, and it's all put in writing so you know exactly what to expect. Sellers and builders often offer compensation to the buyer's agent, and I'll walk you through how it works for each home we look at.
Can first-time buyers buy new construction?
Yes. Builders around Petersburg, Chesterfield, and Dinwiddie often offer incentives like help with closing costs or a lower rate. Bring your own agent from the first visit so someone is negotiating for you, not the builder.
What's the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate. Pre-approval means a lender has checked your income, credit, and assets, and it's what sellers expect to see with your offer.
you've got this
Start with the guide
Every step from pre-approval to closing, plus my list of trusted lenders, inspectors, and insurance agents. Free, and it's the stuff nobody else tells you.