To buy a house in Fairfax, VA, you want a clear sequence: get pre-approved, set a realistic budget, tour the right neighborhoods, write a strong offer, complete inspections and appraisal, then close with your lender and title company. The best outcomes come from aligning your budget + timeline + offer strategy before you start touring seriously.

In Fairfax, VA, the simplest way to know what you can afford is to set a monthly housing budget first (payment + taxes + insurance + HOA), then confirm the price range a lender supports based on your income, debts, down payment, and credit. Your “max approval” and your “comfortable p.ayment” are often different numbers. The goal is a budget that still leaves room for savings and normal life.

For many people, 2026 can be a good time to buy in Northern Virginia—especially if you’re prepared, you’re focused on long-term value, and you’re shopping with a clear budget. Inventory has been improving compared to last year, which can mean more choices and (sometimes) less pressure. The tradeoff is that affordability still matters: the “right time” is when the monthly payment and your timeline make sense.