Buying a Home Isn’t Just About the House
Before we get into checklists and pre-approvals, let’s be honest…buying a home is a big deal. Especially in a place like Lewisburg, WV, where the pace is slower, the community is strong, and every property has a story. So how do you know if you’re ready to take that step?
Here’s what we look for when helping buyers decide if now’s the time.
1. You’re Financially Prepared
You don’t need to be rich. But you do need to be steady.
Ask yourself:
- Do I have a reliable income?
- Do I have enough saved for a down payment and closing costs?
- Is my credit score in decent shape?
- Can I comfortably afford a monthly mortgage (plus taxes and insurance)?
For most Lewisburg buyers, 3–5% down is common with conventional loans but can be upwards of 20%. Some local buyers qualify for VA or USDA loans with no money down. Closing costs in our area typically run 2–5% of the purchase price.
👉 Bonus tip: You’ll also want some savings left over for home maintenance and unexpected expenses after you move in.
2. You’re Ready to Settle In (for a While)
In Lewisburg, buying makes the most sense if you plan to stay put for at least 3–5 years. That gives your home time to appreciate and helps you avoid losing money on resale costs.
Even if you’re not planting lifelong roots, ask yourself:
- Am I planning to stay in the area?
- Do I want to build equity instead of paying rent?
- Would owning feel more stable right now?
If you’re in Lewisburg for work, family, or lifestyle reasons, buying might give you the stability you’re looking for.
3. You Know What You Want (and What You Can Flex On)
Knowing your must-haves helps us guide you to the right neighborhoods and homes. But it’s just as important to know where you can be flexible.
Must-haves in Lewisburg might include:
- 2+ bedrooms near downtown or WVSOM
- A fenced yard for pets
- Easy access to Route 219 for commuting
Nice-to-haves could be:
- A mountain view
- Home office space
- Walkability to coffee shops, parks, or Carnegie Hall events
We help you find homes that fit your lifestyle, whether that’s morning walks on the Greenbrier River Trail or hosting backyard dinners in neighborhoods like Sweet Grass or Rolling Hills.
4. You’ve Talked to a Lender (or You’re Ready To)
Getting pre-approved doesn’t lock you into a loan, but it does give you clarity. You’ll learn:
- How much house you can afford
- What your monthly payments would look like
- Which loan types work for your situation
It also makes you a stronger buyer when it’s time to make an offer…especially in competitive Lewisburg neighborhoods where good homes can go quickly.
Need a few local lender options? Byron and Kerry can help connect you.
5. You Want More Than Rent Can Offer
Renting might be the right fit for some seasons of life. But here’s when buying can be the better call:
- You want to personalize your space without a landlord’s rules
- You want to build long-term equity
- You’re tired of rising rent costs
In Greenbrier County, rent for a modest two-bedroom apartment often rivals the monthly cost of a mortgage. Many buyers tell us they “just feel ready to invest in something of their own.” That’s a strong sign you might be ready, too.
6. You’re Ready to Ask Questions and Get Answers
One of the biggest signs you’re ready? You’re curious. You’re already searching for answers like this one. That means you’re thinking ahead and that’s where we come in.
At this stage, our job is to help you feel informed and supported. We walk you through:
- What homes are available in your price range
- What the offer process looks like
What inspections, financing, and closing timelines really mean
And we’ll keep answering questions until it all makes sense.
What Makes Buying in Lewisburg Unique?
Here, the pace is more personal. Buyers often find homes that feel like the right fit…not just a fast transaction.
You’ll see:
- Historic homes near downtown with walkable charm
- Newer neighborhoods with parks and trails
- Country homes and land just outside of town
Our local market still favors buyers in certain price ranges, and homes under $300K tend to move quickly when priced well. That’s why having a clear budget and a flexible mindset can make all the difference.
What to Do Next
If you’re nodding “yes” to most of what you’ve read, it’s probably time to talk to someone. Not to start shopping tomorrow (unless you want to!), but to map out what this journey could look like.
Start with a homebuyer consultation. We’ll:
- Ask about your goals
- Review your timeline
- Walk through the next steps based on where you are today
No pressure. No rush. Just a friendly conversation with people who live and work in the Greenbrier Valley because that’s what we do.
Buying a home in Lewisburg, WV, starts with one simple step: reaching out. If you’re wondering if this is your season, let’s talk it through together.
About Byron & Kerry:
Byron Rausenberger and Kerry Baldwin are experienced real estate agents based in Lewisburg, West Virginia, serving clients across the Greenbrier Valley, including Greenbrier, Monroe, and Summers Counties. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling property, or relocating to the area, Byron and Kerry offer local expertise, personalized service, and smart real estate strategies to guide you every step of the way.
They specialize in residential homes, land, farms, and investment properties and are known for their community-focused approach, professional marketing, and in-depth knowledge of the West Virginia real estate market.
Ready to buy a home in Lewisburg, WV? Start with mortgage pre-approval…then let Byron and Kerry guide you through the rest. Contact them today for expert help!
📍 Serving Lewisburg, WV and surrounding counties
🌐 livinginlewisburgwv.com
📲 Byron: 757-871-3165 | @byronsellshouses
📲 Kerry: 304-503-3445 | @yourwestvirginiahome
Living in Lewisburg, WV 