As an Arlington real estate agent who works with many first-time homebuyers, I see a familiar pattern: buyers take the leap a little nervously… then look back and wonder why they waited so long. Within just a few years, they’ve paid down their mortgage, built equity, and watched their home appreciate—growing their net worth year after year.

And then there are the renters who want to buy but never make it happen. Meanwhile, they continue paying their landlord’s mortgage and miss out on building real wealth.

Below are the most common reasons renters hesitate to buy a condo or home in Arlington—and what first-time buyers should know before saying “not yet.”

1. “I don’t know how long I’ll be in the area.”

This is the number-one objection I hear, especially in the DC and Arlington markets, where people often move for school, work, military assignments, or short-term contracts.

If you’re certain you’ll only be here for less than two years, renting might be smarter financially. But for most people who think they’ll leave soon… they’re still here five years later.

And in that time, they’ve paid roughly $120,000 in rent (based on $2,000/month) with nothing to show for it.
If they had bought, many would have gained $25,000–$50,000 in equity—real money that builds real wealth.

2. “I can’t afford to buy.”

This is a genuine concern—but many renters assume they can’t buy without actually checking.

In Arlington and the surrounding area, many first-time buyers find they can purchase a condo for roughly the same amount they pay in rent each month. A quick conversation with a reputable lender can clarify:

• Your true monthly payment

• Your real affordability

• Which first-time buyer loan programs you qualify for

If you want a few trusted lender recommendations, I’m happy to share them.

3. “I don’t have a 20% down payment.”

Good news: you don’t need 20% down. That’s one of the biggest myths in real estate.

Today’s buyers often use:

• 3% down conventional loans

• FHA loans

• 5% down options

• Down-payment assistance programs (and income limits here are surprisingly high)

If the down payment is the only thing holding you back, let’s talk through the options.

4. “I haven’t found the perfect condo yet.”

If you’re waiting for the perfect condo, you may be waiting forever.

Instead, separate your search into:

Must-haves
and
Nice-to-haves

Most successful buyers find a home that checks all the must-have boxes and about 70–80% of the nice-to-have items. And remember—your first home isn’t your forever home.

5. “I’m not sure what I want.”

Totally normal. Most first-time buyers only figure out what they truly want after they start touring condos.

Once we walk through a few places and I ask some clarifying questions, your priorities become clear quickly. Don’t wait to have all the answers—getting started is how you find them.

6. “I’m not sure where to start.”

Buying a home is something most people do only a few times in their life, so uncertainty is expected.

This is exactly where a knowledgeable buyer’s agent adds value.
I’ve guided hundreds of buyers through the process, and I can walk you through everything from financing to neighborhoods to writing an offer.

7. “I don’t have a job.”

This is one of the few truly valid reasons to pause. Without income—or unless you’re paying cash—you won’t qualify for a mortgage. Secure the job, get on a budget, start saving, and revisit when you're ready.

8. “I don’t want to be tied down—I might get married someday.”

If you’re in a serious relationship and planning big life changes, waiting can make sense.

But many people say this when they’re not even dating anyone. Ironically, they’re willing to commit to a 12-month lease—but not a home they can always rent out or sell later.

Life doesn’t have to be perfectly planned before you buy.

So What’s Really Holding You Back?

Every renter has a reason. Some are practical. Some are fear-based. But year after year, renting builds your landlord’s wealth—not yours.

If you’re tired of paying someone else’s mortgage, now is the time to explore whether buying a home or condo in Arlington could finally work for you.

Ready to stop renting and start building equity?
I’m here to help you understand your options, your affordability, and what the path to homeownership looks like.