First-Time Home Buyers in Wake & Johnston County, NC

Buying your first home is exciting — and overwhelming.
Prime One Realty helps first-time home buyers across Wake County and Johnston County, including Garner, Clayton, Fuquay-Varina, and Raleigh.

First-time buyer services are led by Jackie Gautreau, Broker-in-Charge, who brings over 25 years of real estate experience and a professional appraisal background to help new buyers make confident, informed decisions.

Most first-time buyers come to us with the same concerns:

• How much home can I really afford? 
• What credit score do I need? 
• How much money do I need upfront? 
• What happens during inspections and appraisals? 
• What if I make a mistake?
   

Our job is to slow the process down, explain every step, and remove surprises — not rush you into a decision.

Prime One Realty is relationship-driven and referral-based, which means our advice is built around long-term outcomes, not quick sales.

For first-time buyers, we focus on:

• Education before action 
• Clear explanations in plain language 
• Realistic expectations about pricing and competition 
• Guidance that protects you financially and emotionally
   

You’ll never be told to “just trust the process.”
We explain the process.

1. Understanding Your Budget

We help you understand:

• Monthly payment comfort (not just lender approval) 
• How taxes, insurance, and HOA fees affect affordability 
• What price range makes sense in today’s market 

2. Financing & Loan Options

Many first-time buyers use:

• FHA loans 
• VA loans (for eligible buyers) 
• Down payment assistance programs

We explain how each option works and what it means for:

• Your offer strength 
• Inspections and appraisals 
• Your long-term finances

3. Choosing the Right Location 

First-time buyers often ask how cities compare.

We help you evaluate:

• Garner vs Raleigh (price vs commute) 
• Clayton vs Fuquay-Varina (space vs convenience) 
• Neighborhood differences within each city 
• Long-term resale considerations
   

There is no “one-size-fits-all” answer — we help you find what fits you.

4. Touring Homes & Making an Offer

When you’re ready, we guide you through:

• What to look for during showings 
• Red flags vs cosmetic issues 
• Writing a competitive but responsible offer 
• Understanding contingencies and timelines
   

Our goal is to help you win without overextending yourself.

5. Inspections, Appraisals & Closing

This is where many first-time buyers feel anxious.

We walk you through:

• Home inspections and what really matters 
• Appraisals and value considerations 
• Repair negotiations (when appropriate) 
• Closing costs and final numbers
   

Nothing is glossed over — you’ll know what’s happening and why.

First-time buyers work with us because we offer:

• Patient, step-by-step guidance 
• Honest answers (even when it’s not what you want to hear) 
• Appraisal-level insight on value and pricing 
• Clear communication throughout the process 
• Leadership and oversight from a Broker-in-Charge
   

Many of our first-time buyers later return as move-up buyers — and refer friends and family.

Who helps first-time home buyers in Wake and Johnston County, NC?
Prime One Realty helps first-time home buyers throughout Wake County and Johnston County, including Garner, Clayton, Fuquay-Varina, and Raleigh.

Do I need perfect credit to buy my first home?
No. Many first-time buyers qualify with FHA, VA, or other loan programs depending on their situation.

How much money do I need to buy my first home?
This depends on the loan program, price range, and closing costs. We help buyers understand realistic numbers early.

Will you explain everything step by step?
Yes. Education is a core part of how Prime One Realty helps first-time buyers.

 If you’re thinking about buying your first home in Wake or Johnston County, Prime One Realty can help you move forward with clarity and confidence — even if you’re just in the planning stage.