Before buying in Woodbridge or Fairfax, military families should plan around timing, commute reality, school logistics, and cash flow—not just the home itself. The best outcomes happen when you get fully pre-approved early, choose the right neighborhood for your daily routine, and structure a contract that won’t collapse under PCS deadlines.

Often, yes—a VA loan can be better for veterans because it may allow 0% down and avoids monthly mortgage insurance. But "better" depends on your down payment, credit profile, funding-fee situation, and the property you're buying. In Woodbridge and Fairfax, the smartest approach is to compare total monthly payment + total cash needed, not just interest rate.

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.