Vienna, Virginia, is one of Northern Virginia’s most popular places to live—known for its top-tier schools, small-town feel, strong community, and convenient access to Tysons Corner, Reston, and Washington, DC.
But for first-time homebuyers, the biggest question is simple:
Is it still possible to buy a home in Vienna, VA for under $800,000?
The short answer: Yes—but options are limited, competition is real, and you need to know exactly where to look.
This guide breaks down everything buyers can expect in the sub-$800K range in 2025 and how to navigate the market strategically.
Why Vienna, VA Attracts First-Time Buyers
Even with its higher prices compared to some parts of Fairfax County, Vienna continues to attract newcomers because it offers:
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Top-rated FCPS schools (Madison HS pyramid, one of the best in the region)
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Walkable town center with shops, restaurants & community events
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Metro access via Vienna/Fairfax-GMU and Dunn Loring stations
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Proximity to major employment hubs like Tysons & Reston
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Safe, suburban neighborhoods with a small-town charm
For many first-time buyers moving to Northern Virginia, Vienna offers a more community-oriented alternative to Arlington, Alexandria, or DC.
What $800K Buys You in Vienna, VA (2025 Market Snapshot)
Vienna is known for its luxury new construction homes—many of which start at $1.8M–$3M.
However, under $800K you can still find:
1. Townhomes (Most Common Under $800K)
Expected price range: $650K–$775K+
Typical features:
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3–4 bedrooms
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2.5–3.5 bathrooms
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1,700–2,200 sq ft
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Built between 1980s–2000s
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Assigned or garage parking
Popular townhome communities include:
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Stonehurst (near Fairfax City line)
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Circle Woods
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Westwood Village (near Tysons)
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Cinnamon Creek
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Waterford (walkable to downtown Vienna)
These offer the best value for young professionals and small families.
2. Older Single-Family Homes (Rare Under $800K but Possible)
Expected price range: $700K–$800K
Usually:
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1950s–1960s ramblers or Cape Cods
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0.25–0.35 acre lots
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3 beds / 2 baths
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Modest interior updates
Neighborhoods where occasional options appear under $800K:
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Vienna Woods
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East Vienna near Courthouse Rd
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Dunn Loring Woods
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West Vienna near Nutley St
These homes are smaller and older—but the land value is high, making them great long-term investments.
3. Condos (Under $500K–$650K range)
If your budget is tighter, Vienna has many condo options near Metro:
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Wilton House (Dunn Loring Metro)
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Westbriar Plaza
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Marquis at Vienna Metro
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Acadia
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Westbriar Condominiums
Condos offer:
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Lower purchase price
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Walkability to Metro
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Amenities like gyms, pools, elevators
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Lower maintenance
Perfect for first-time buyers who prefer convenience over space.
Neighborhoods to Target Under $800K
1. Dunn Loring / Merrifield Area
Ideal for Metro access and walkability.
Townhomes & condos dominate this area, fitting well into the $500K–$775K range.
2. South Vienna (Near Nutley St & Oakton Area)
Quiet, residential, with older homes.
Good for buyers seeking single-family homes slightly under $800K.
3. Tysons Border (Westwood Village, Westbriar)
Great for commuters and professionals.
Modern townhomes and condos close to Tysons Corner Center.
4. Maple Avenue Corridor (Central Vienna)
More expensive overall, but occasionally offers older townhomes under $800K.
Walkable to parks, dining, and Church Street.
What First-Time Buyers Should Expect in Vienna’s Market
1. Limited Inventory Under $800K
Vienna is a high-demand, low-supply market.
Listings under $800K sell fast—especially townhomes.
2. Strong Competition
Multiple offers are common in the sub-$800K category, especially for:
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Renovated homes
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Walkable locations
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Homes near top schools
Buyers should be prepared to act quickly.
3. Most Homes Will Be Older or Smaller
New construction will almost never fall under $800K.
Expect:
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1980s townhomes
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1950s–1970s single-family homes
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2000s condos
Renovations may be needed depending on the property.
4. HOA and Condo Fees
Townhomes may have HOAs: $90–$180/mo
Condos often have higher fees: $350–$600/mo
These fees cover maintenance and amenities, so buyers must factor them into monthly budgets.
Tips for First-Time Buyers Shopping Under $800K
1. Get a Pre-Approval Before Shopping
Homes sell fast—having a strong pre-approval makes your offer competitive.
2. Be Flexible With Needs vs. Wants
You may need to choose between:
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More space vs. walkability
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Single-family home vs. townhome
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Updated interiors vs. renovation potential
3. Consider Townhomes for Best Value
Townhomes under $800K offer:
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More space than condos
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Lower cost than single-family homes
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Great resale value
4. Be Ready to Tour the Moment a Listing Appears
Many good homes go under contract within 3–5 days.
5. Work With a Local Agent Who Knows Vienna
Vienna has many micro-neighborhoods.
A knowledgeable agent can help you find deals before they hit the market.
Is Vienna, VA a Good Investment for First-Time Buyers?
Absolutely. Vienna consistently ranks as one of Northern Virginia’s strongest real estate markets due to:
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High demand & low supply
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Top school pyramid (Madison HS)
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Strong job market nearby
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Ongoing improvements to Tysons & Metro access
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Stable long-term appreciation
Buying under $800K positions you well for future equity growth—especially if you choose a townhome or an older single-family home in a desirable neighborhood.
Final Thoughts
Buying a home in Vienna, VA under $800K is still possible—but requires preparation, speed, and a clear understanding of the market. First-time buyers should expect:
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Townhomes and condos as the most common options
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Occasional older single-family homes under $800K
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Highly competitive conditions
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Excellent long-term investment potential
Vienna remains one of Northern Virginia’s most desirable communities, and getting in under $800K is a smart way to start building equity in a strong, stable housing market.
1. Is it possible to buy a home in Vienna, VA for under $800K?
Yes. While inventory is limited, first-time buyers can still find townhomes, condos, and some older single-family homes under $800K in Vienna.
2. What type of homes are available in Vienna, VA under $800K?
Most options include townhomes built from the 1980s–2000s, modern condos near Metro, and occasional older single-family homes on smaller lots.
3. Which neighborhoods offer homes under $800K in Vienna?
Common areas include Dunn Loring, South Vienna near Nutley Street, Westwood Village, Westbriar, and communities near the Vienna/Fairfax-GMU Metro.
4. Are townhomes a good option for first-time buyers in Vienna, VA?
Yes. Townhomes offer great value with more space than condos, lower prices than single-family homes, and strong long-term appreciation.
5. Can I find a single-family home in Vienna, VA under $800K?
It’s rare but possible. These are typically older ramblers or split-level homes from the 1950s–1970s with modest updates.
6. What condo buildings are best for first-time buyers in Vienna?
Popular choices include Wilton House, Marquis at Vienna Metro, Westbriar Plaza, Acadia, and Westbriar Condominiums.
7. What is the average price of townhomes in Vienna, VA?
Townhomes typically range from $650K to $775K, depending on size, location, and updates.
8. What should first-time buyers expect in terms of competition?
Homes under $800K move quickly. Expect multiple offers, especially for renovated townhomes and properties near Metro.
9. What are typical HOA or condo fees in Vienna?
Townhome HOAs: $90–$180/month
Condo associations: $350–$600/month
These often include exterior maintenance, amenities, trash, and community upkeep.
10. How walkable is Vienna, VA for buyers without a car?
Areas near Maple Avenue, Church Street, and Dunn Loring Metro offer the best walkability to cafes, shops, grocery stores, and transit.
11. Are Vienna, VA schools good for first-time buyers planning a family?
Yes. The Madison High School pyramid is one of Fairfax County’s top-rated school systems and a major reason Vienna stays in high demand.
12. Will my home appreciate if I buy in Vienna under $800K?
Vienna has strong long-term appreciation due to limited land, high demand, top schools, and proximity to Tysons and DC.
13. Is Vienna a better investment than nearby areas like Oakton or Fairfax?
For long-term appreciation and community feel, Vienna is considered one of the strongest markets in Northern Virginia—especially near Maple Ave and Dunn Loring.
14. How competitive is the bidding process in Vienna for homes under $800K?
Highly competitive. Well-priced homes may receive 5–10 offers. Having pre-approval and quick decision-making is important.
15. What is the best strategy for first-time buyers shopping under $800K in Vienna?
Work with a local agent, monitor new listings daily, tour homes immediately, and be flexible with property type and location.
