Buying a Home as a Single Person (From People Who Have Done It)

Thinking about buying a home solo? Hear from real homeowners who did it, learn their strategies, and find out how you can, too.

Buying a Home While Single is Possible

We asked two ladies what advice they have for single buyers dreaming about owning their first home. Here's what they had to say.

When Renting No Longer Makes Sense: Renika’s Story

Ms. Atkins represents this growing trend. "Renting got to be just as much as owning, so I bought one," she explains. "My income was enough to get one." Like many young professionals, she realized that her rising rent payments could be redirected to building equity in her own home instead.

» MORE: Calculate your buying power with the Affordability Calculator

What's the first step someone should take to get started?

"My biggest piece of advice is to find a loan originator and have them size you up for a loan. Find a loan originator first - not a realtor, a loan officer," says Renika.

You might be wondering why prioritizing a loan officer first is essential. Knowing what you can actually afford before you start looking for a house keeps your expectations in check and makes the whole process less stressful. Plus, it helps you feel good about the homes that are within your budget, so you don’t end up stretching your finances too thin!

What's one piece of advice you’d give someone feeling like homeownership is out of reach?

"Don’t rush or let someone fearmonger you... houses will be built and available when you get ready to buy." Renika advises.

Despite what you might hear about "missing out" or "rates only going higher," the reality is there will always be homes to buy. The key is getting your finances in order first, so you're in the strongest possible position when you do find the right home.

Ignoring the Naysayers: Kris’ Story

"I actually wanted to do it a lot sooner but allowed so many people to discourage me," shares Kris Anderson, who bought her home at 30. "But now that I've taken this big step, it's one of the best decisions I've ever made, and my mortgage is cheaper than my rent was for a two-bedroom townhome."

What’s one thing you would want someone to know before starting their homebuying journey?

"Find a great realtor that is knowledgeable about all of the first-time home buyer resources that are available," advises Kris. These resources can include down payment assistance, low-interest loans, and other financial assistance.

» MORE: Use the Mortgage Calculator to compare your mortgage options side-by-side.

Key Takeaways for Buying a Home When Single

Trust your numbers, not others' opinions.

• The most important factor is your budget, which determines what you can afford without compromising financial security.

Your mortgage payment may be cheaper than rent

• Turn your $2,000 rent into property ownership - many buyers discover their mortgage payment matches current rent but builds equity. Fixed mortgage payments shield you from increasing rental costs while simultaneously building equity.

Consider choosing a more manageable first home

• A modest condo or townhome gets you in the game and off the sidelines. It builds confidence in homeownership and can leave more wiggle room in your budget.

Be flexible about your location

• Being open to emerging neighborhoods or perhaps a different city could provide more home for your budget and better appreciation potential.

Use first-time buyer programs

• Special programs can reduce your initial costs and enable homeownership sooner.

Bottom Line: You can buy a home while single

More and more young single women in their 20s and early 30s are taking the initiative to buy homes on their own, challenging the traditional belief of waiting until marriage. With patience and careful planning, you too can start your homebuying journey, just like Renika and Kris.

» NEXT: [Learn what to expect during the home buying process from beginning to end with our Free Home Buying Guide