Everything you Need to Know About First-Time Home Buyers

October 30, 2018

Central Ohio home buyers tend to have to dig to find a house on the market—and for first-time home buyers, this can be a daunting task. Luckily at Trinity Homes, we make it easy for buyers to find or custom build their dream home without having to search off the grid. Here’s what you need to know about first-time home buyers, a market that made up 34 percent of all home buyers last year.

Who They Are

So, what do these first-time home buyers look like? The average first-time buyer is 32 years old with a household income of $75,000. About 58 percent of these buyers are married couples, 18 percent are single females, 14 percent are unmarried couples, and 8 percent are single males.

Over half say their reasoning behind purchasing a house is to finally be the owner of their own home. This follows the finding that 74 percent of buyers had previously rented before seeking out a house of their own.

How They Afford a New Home

There are plenty of ways to purchase a house. From savings, to gifts, to loans, to asking the tried-and-true “Bank of Mom and Dad,” there are resources out there to aid those hoping to have a place to call their own. Here’s how these homes are being financed:

Although 26 percent list saving money for a down payment as the biggest hurdle to buying a new home, 78 percent of down payments are paid via savings. Other sources include gifts, sale of stocks or bonds, 401k/pension fund, loans from friends or family, inheritance, or an IRA. The median down payment is 5 percent with a median purchase price of $190,000.

What They Are Looking For

Studies show that first-time home buyers are willing to cut spending on luxurious items, entertainment, and vacations in order to save for their dream home. But, what are home buyers looking for in a new home that justifies these spending sacrifices?

About 84 percent of home buyers purchase a home in a suburban area, with single-family homes being the majority of homes bought. About 58 percent of home buyers say “it was just the right time” when asked why they bought when they did.

Are you a first-time home buyer? Contact a Trinity Homes sales representative today to get started on finding your dream home.

TThe Trinity Homes Design Center Roadmap | Step-by-Step Guide to Designing Your Home
August 25, 2025
Follow the Trinity Homes Design Center Roadmap to create your dream home. From choosing a floor plan to customizing finishes with our designer, explore each step of the homebuilding process.
By MJ Marketing August 18, 2025
Our family at Trinity Homes is made up of people just like you. Our understanding of how families want to live is incorporated into every home that we build. We understand that building a home is about so much more than just selecting a design and constructing it. We also understand that building a home is a huge life decision that comes with a lot of questions. Here are some of the most important and common questions we get to help you get started. Where does Trinity Homes build? We build all throughout the Central Ohio area, with communities in: Dublin Galena Plain City Grove City Pickerington Delaware Explore our communities here . What types of floor plans do you offer? At Trinity Homes, we have 26 customizable floor plans designed to match the needs of every stage of life and lifestyle. Whether you're growing your family, looking to downsize, or need to accommodate multiple generations under one roof, we have a layout that can be customized just for you. Do you have move-in ready homes? While we can help build your home from start to finish, we also have an inventory of quick move-in homes that are already nearing completion. View available move-in ready homes here . What amenities are included in your communities? Amenities vary by neighborhood but may include walking trails, parks, pools, and clubhouses. We'll help you find the community that best suits your lifestyle. What types of homes do you build? We specialize in building traditional single-family homes and condominiums throughout the Central Ohio area. What customization options do you offer? When building your Trinity Home, you will have the opportunity to visit our design center to make your exterior and interior selections. From siding to mailboxes to flooring, hardware, and finishes, we offer an extensive range of options, empowering our clients to build a home that truly reflects their unique style and personality. Can I use material selections outside of what Trinity offers? Of course! We’re always happy to accommodate these custom requests, ensuring every home reflects the unique style and preferences of its owner. If you have more questions, please contact a sales associate today.
July 24, 2025
Buying a home in Central Ohio is a major financial decision and long-term commitment, but it also offers significant financial advantages. Whether you're selecting one of our flexible floor plans or choosing a move-in ready home , homeownership provides value that grows over time. Predictable Monthly Payments One of the most valuable financial benefits of homeownership is stability. With a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, your monthly housing payment remains consistent, helping you avoid unpredictable rent increases. This reliability makes it easier to plan ahead and stay on track financially. Build Equity and Grow Wealth Instead of paying rent without return, your monthly mortgage payments contribute to something you own. With every payment, you increase your ownership stake in the property and build equity. Over time, this equity can fund a renovation, support another investment, or contribute to long-term financial stability. Plan Ahead with Flexible Floor Plans Choosing a semi-custom home means designing your space to meet current and future needs. Trinity Homes offers open-concept layouts, adaptable bonus spaces, and smart square footage that grows with your lifestyle. Planning ahead can help reduce the need for costly renovations or future moves. Explore our flexible floor plans Long-Term Value and Home Appreciation A home is one of your most important financial assets. Properties often appreciate in value, particularly in well-planned communities with quality schools and amenities. By staying in your home long-term, you increase your chances of benefiting from home appreciation and growing your net worth. Save with Move-In Ready Options If you're looking to move quickly, a move-in ready home can be a financially smart choice. Trinity Homes often offers reduced pricing, included upgrades, or assistance with closing costs on inventory homes. Enjoy a brand-new space with modern features and minimal repair expenses. Browse move-in ready homes Frequently Asked Questions Q: What are the financial advantages of buying a home over renting? A: Homeownership lets you build equity, benefit from property appreciation, and enjoy stable monthly payments, unlike renting where payments offer no long-term return. Q: Are semi-custom homes more expensive? A: Semi-custom homes can offer more long-term value by reducing renovation costs and better meeting your family’s evolving needs. Q: How quickly can I move into a Trinity Homes property? A: Our move-in ready homes are available for quick occupancy, often with added savings or included upgrades. If you're considering buying a home, Trinity Homes offers options designed to support both your lifestyle and your long-term financial goals. Whether you choose the flexibility of a semi-custom build or the convenience of a quick move-in home , you’ll enjoy lasting value, thoughtful design, and a team committed to making your journey feel easy from day one. Ready to invest in your future? Contact us today to explore semi-custom and move-in ready homes in Central Ohio.
Meet Sales Consultant Amy Branson | Trinity Homes
July 21, 2025
Explore the Trinity Homes experience through Sales Consultant Amy Branson and learn how our semi-custom homebuilding process helps families find the right fit from day one.
Welcome to Lakeside at Avondale
June 30, 2025
Condo, Condo Columbus Ohio, Condo Dublin Ohio, Condo Hilliard Ohio, Condominium, Inventory Homes, Lakeside at Avondale
Bright, modern spaces in an energy efficient home with natural light and eco-friendly finishes.
June 16, 2025
Reasons to build an energy-efficient home, from lower utility bills to long-term value and everyday comfort.
May 20, 2025
Explore the benefits of multigenerational living and discover Trinity Homes floor plans designed to fit families of all sizes and stages of life.
May 20, 2025
Transform your yard with expert landscaping tips that boost curb appeal and increase your home’s value. Learn how to choose plants, plan your design, and make a stunning first impression.
Blueprint for the Brookhaven floor plan by Trinity Homes
April 22, 2025
Explore 26 customizable home floor plans from Trinity Homes—designed for growing families, multi-generational households, and empty nesters.
April 10, 2025
Discover why Galena, Ohio is one of the best suburbs near Columbus. From outdoor recreation and top schools to new homes by Trinity Homes, see what makes Galena the perfect place to call home.