Top 10 Best Real Estate Markets for First-Time Buyers in 2025

If you’re like many aspiring homebuyers, the rising cost of living might feel like a major roadblock. From groceries to gas, and yes, especially home prices, everything seems to be getting more expensive.

But even in today’s market, there are still ways to make your homeownership dreams a reality. The key is knowing the current best real estate markets and how to approach your first home purchase strategically.

Think of Your First Home as a Stepping Stone

One of the biggest misconceptions among buyers is that their first home has to be their dream home. The truth is, your very first home doesn’t need to check every box on your wish list. Instead, think of your first home as a stepping stone to your final destination.

Owning a home allows you to start building equity, which grows over time as home prices increase. That equity can be a powerful tool when you’re ready to upgrade to a bigger home or move to a more desirable location in the future.

Rather than waiting until you can afford your dream home in your ideal neighborhood, consider starting with something that fits your current needs and budget. This approach gets you into the market sooner and may cost you in the short-term, but it sets you up for long-term financial growth. Best of all, it’s a real start to eventually buying your dream home at some point in the future.

Explore the Best Real Estate Markets in 2025

If the price of homes in your preferred area are holding you back, it might be worth broadening your search. With some flexibility in location, you can find more affordable options without sacrificing the amenities most important to you. Many first-time buyers find homebuying success by exploring surrounding areas or even considering a move to a different state.

According to a report from Realtor.com, these are the 10 best real estate markets for first-time homebuyers in 2025:

1. Rochester, NY with a Median List Price of $129,900.
2. Lansing, MI with a Median List Price of $135,000.
3. Harrisburg, PA with a Median List Price of $140,000.
4. Lauderdale Lakes, FL with a Median List Price of $154,850.
5. North Little Rock, AR with a Median List Price of  $160,000.
6. Baltimore, MD with a Median List Price of $210,000.
7. Wilmington, DE with a Median List Price of $222,000.
8. Altamonte Springs, FL with a Median List Price of $229,400.
9. Tonawanda, NY with a Median List Price of $229,000.
10. Villas, FL with a Median List Price of $236.950.

Realtor weighted their market rankings by several factors including median price, location score, number of home listings, average commute time, and others specified in the full report. If one of these cities is in or near your target home location, it’s worth looking to see what properties are available. Even if you don’t find your dream home, you might find the perfect starter home on the path to it.

Stay Local and Look Just Outside Your Preferred Area

If moving to a different state isn’t an option, you can still find affordable homes by expanding your search locally. Sometimes, looking even just 10 to 20 minutes outside your ideal neighborhood can make a significant difference in price. Nearby areas can often offer similar amenities, like access to restaurants, shops, and activities, but at a lower cost.

And the best way to see what’s available is to work with a real estate agent who understands the local market and can help you identify hidden gems nearby. An agent can point you to communities you may not have considered that have lower price tags now and are steadily gaining value and appeal. That way you can buy your first home and be set up to gain equity through the years.

Conclusion

Today’s cost of living is a challenge for many homebuyers, but by exploring 2025’s best real estate markets and working with a knowledgeable agent, you can take that first step toward owning a home this year, and building equity for your future.

How far outside your area would you be willing to look to make your homeownership dreams a reality? Connect with us to discuss your options and find the perfect market for your first home.