From Rent to Keys — A Millennial & Gen Z Guide to Buying in Suffolk County

You’ve mastered online grocery orders, found your go-to Dunkin’ drink, and even remembered to water your plants (well, most of them). Now, you’re ready for the next level of adulting—buying your first home.

If you’re a Millennial or Gen Z buyer eyeing Long Island real estate, especially in Suffolk County hot spots like Stony Brook, Port Jefferson, and Huntington, you might be wondering: Can I actually afford this? The answer: Yes—with the right strategy.

Here’s how to go from paying rent to holding the keys to your own place.

1. Why Owning Beats Renting in 2025

Rent prices on Long Island are like that Netflix subscription—creeping higher every year. The difference? You can’t build equity by renting.

Owning a home means:

• Your monthly payment works for you (not your landlord)

• You’re building wealth over time

• You can paint your walls without asking permission

Example: The average 2-bedroom rental in Suffolk County is around $2,800/month. With current rates, that could equal a mortgage payment on a $400,000 home in some areas of Stony Brook, Port Jefferson, or Huntington Station—and you’d be investing in yourself, not someone else’s portfolio.

2. Start With Your Credit Score

No, you don’t need a perfect 800. Many first-time buyers qualify with scores in the mid-600s. Your lender will help you find the right program—like FHA or SONYMA—that works with your current score.

Quick Fixes:

• Pay down high-interest credit cards

• Don’t open new store cards before applying

• Set up autopay to avoid late fees

3. Saving for the Down Payment

Millennials and Gen Z buyers often think 20% down is required. Not true. Many first-time buyer programs allow as little as 3–5% down.

Pro Tip: That’s $15–20k on a $400,000 home—not impossible if you set up automatic savings or use a side hustle to grow your home fund. 

(Not ready to make moves yet but interested about what High Yield Savings Account I use? Text me and I'll send you referral link! 631-612-1616)

4. Local Incentives You Should Know About

Suffolk County and New York State offer grants and programs to help first-time buyers. Some cover closing costs, others offer lower interest rates. A Long Island real estate agent who specializes in first-time buyers (🙋‍♀️) can connect you with the right lenders and programs.

5. Neighborhood Spotlights

• Stony Brook: College-town energy, family-friendly, great schools, and close to the water.

• Port Jefferson: Waterfront restaurants, marina views, and downtown vibes.

• Huntington: Artsy, foodie-friendly, and commuter-friendly with an active nightlife scene.

Each has its own personality—so your agent will help you match your budget, commute, and lifestyle.

6. Make a “Must-Have” vs “Nice-to-Have” List

A must-have could be “2 bedrooms, close to LIRR.”
A nice-to-have might be “farmhouse sink” or “giant backyard for summer BBQs.”
Knowing your non-negotiables will keep you focused in a competitive Suffolk County housing market.

7. The Agent Advantage

First-time buyers often think they can just “wing it” with Zillow searches. But in today’s market, the right local agent will:

• Spot hidden gem listings before they hit the public market

• Negotiate so you don’t overpay

• Keep you from making costly rookie mistakes

If you’re ready to trade rent for keys in Suffolk County, NY, now’s the time to get serious. With the right prep and the right agent, buying your first home in Stony Brook, Port Jefferson, or Huntington is absolutely possible—even in today’s market.

📩 Download my free First-Time Homebuyer Guide for a step-by-step plan, insider tips, and local market insights to help you buy smart on Long Island.

Shaughnessy Dusling

Licensed Associate Broker at Real Broker NY LLC

150 Motor Parkway St 401

Hauppauge NY 11788

cell 631-612-1616