10/13/2026
Think your first home is still years away? It may be closer than it feels. 🏡
Zillow estimates that, nationwide, saving for a 20% down payment on a mid-priced home and reaching the rent-versus-buy break-even point can take about 15 years. For a starter home, that estimate is about 7.2 years.
A starter home generally falls in the lower third of local home prices. It could be a condo, townhome, or a smaller or older single-family home. And 20% down isn’t required for every loan: NAR reports that first-time buyers’ median down payment is 10%, and some buyers may qualify for lower down-payment options or assistance.
These are national estimates, so your timeline and options will depend on local prices, your financing, eligibility, and how long you plan to stay.
Curious what a first step could look like in Kansas City? Send our team a message.
Amber Rothermel Real Estate Team
816.808.9881
[email protected]
Brokered with:
Keller Williams Kansas City North
816.452.4200