Moving to Virginia: Key Things to Research Before You Buy

by Onest Realestate

If you’re considering relocating and buying a home in Virginia, this guide is for you. From understanding the housing market to choosing the right neighborhood and budgeting wisely — here are the key things you should research before you buy.

1. Understand the Virginia Real Estate Market

The median home price in Virginia is around $455,000, with slight year-over-year growth.
The average home value is approximately $405,000, making Virginia more affordable than nearby states like Maryland and D.C.
In Northern Virginia, listings have increased while prices have stabilized — giving buyers more negotiating power.

What this means for you: The market is becoming more balanced. You might find better opportunities if you do your research and act strategically.

2. Define Your Lifestyle and Neighborhood Priorities

Before choosing a home, decide what kind of environment fits your lifestyle:

Do you want to live close to urban centers like Arlington or Richmond, or prefer a quieter suburb?
Are schools, commute time, and community amenities important to you?
What type of property best suits your needs — single-family home, townhouse, or condo?

Virginia offers incredible variety — from the coastal charm of Virginia Beach to the scenic mountain towns in the west.

3. Check Affordability and Local Costs

Beyond the home price, consider the overall cost of living in your target area:

Property taxes and homeowners’ association (HOA) fees vary widely.
Insurance costs are higher near the coast due to flood risks.
The average Virginia household spends about 28% of income on housing expenses.

When relocating, build a budget that includes mortgage payments, insurance, commuting, and maintenance costs.

4. Research School Districts and Education

For families, school quality is one of the biggest deciding factors when choosing a neighborhood.
Virginia consistently ranks among the top states in the U.S. for public education and has many nationally recognized universities.

Check district ratings, future development plans, and proximity to reputable schools — they can also impact your home’s resale value.

5. Assess Job Market and Commute

Virginia has a strong and diverse job market, with leading industries in technology, defense, healthcare, and education.
However, traffic can be heavy in metropolitan areas like Northern Virginia, where the average commute time is about 29 minutes.

If you’re working remotely, explore areas with good internet connectivity and coworking options. If you’re commuting, test the routes before finalizing your decision.

6. Watch Out for Region-Specific Risks

Each part of Virginia has unique considerations:

Coastal areas: May experience flooding or hurricane exposure.
Urban zones: Higher living costs and tighter competition.
Mountain and rural areas: Limited public transport and longer commutes.

Understanding these regional differences helps you plan better and avoid surprises later.

7. Budget for Upfront and Ongoing Costs

Besides the purchase price, buyers should plan for:

Down payment and closing costs
Inspection and appraisal fees
Moving expenses
Immediate repairs or renovations
Annual maintenance, utilities, and property taxes

A detailed financial plan will help ensure your move to Virginia is smooth and stress-free.

8. Visit and Evaluate Neighborhoods

If possible, visit multiple neighborhoods — both during the day and at night — to understand local activity, traffic, and amenities.
Check for parks, hospitals, grocery stores, and public transit options nearby.
If you can’t visit in person, use virtual tours or video calls with your agent to explore homes.

9. Work With a Local Real Estate Expert

A trusted Virginia real estate agent can provide valuable insights about micro-markets, school zones, and local regulations.
They’ll help you find homes that fit your goals, negotiate offers, and guide you through the closing process.
Local expertise often saves buyers both time and money.

10. Final Checklist Before You Buy

Before signing the deal, confirm the following:

✅ Recent home inspection and appraisal reports
✅ Average utility and maintenance costs
✅ Days on market and neighborhood price trends
✅ Zoning or future development changes
✅ Resale potential and long-term value

Moving to Virginia is an exciting step — the state offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and strong career opportunities.
By researching thoroughly and working with a knowledgeable agent, you can make confident decisions and find the perfect home that fits your lifestyle and budget.