Somewhere along the way, buying a home got a bad rap—like it means you’ll be chained to your mortgage, saying goodbye to bottomless mimosas and weekend getaways.
Spoiler: You can own a home on Long Island and still live your best life.
If you’re a first-time homebuyer in Suffolk County, NY, especially in Stony Brook, Port Jefferson, or Huntington, here’s how to make it happen without sacrificing the things you love.
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Start With a Realistic Budget
Too many first-time buyers shop for homes at the top of their approval limit. Instead, aim for a mortgage payment that leaves you breathing room for travel, eating out, and the occasional impulse concert ticket.
Rule of Thumb: Your total housing costs (mortgage, taxes, insurance) should be no more than 30% of your monthly income—less if you want extra cash for experiences.
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Explore Low Down Payment Options
Millennials and Gen Z often think 20% down is mandatory, but that’s old-school thinking.
- FHA loans: As low as 3.5% down
- SONYMA programs: Special for New York first-time buyers
- Conventional loans: 3–5% down for qualified buyers
By putting less down, you keep more cash on hand for travel, furniture, and a rainy-day fund.
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Choose Your Location Strategically
Buying in Suffolk County doesn’t have to mean maxing out your budget.
- Stony Brook: Close to nature, great schools, lower taxes than some other Long Island areas
- Port Jefferson: Trendy downtown, ferry access, coastal vibes
- Huntington: Nightlife, arts scene, commuter-friendly—but be flexible on nearby neighborhoods for better value
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Cut Expenses That Don’t Hurt
You don’t have to live on instant noodles to save for your home.
- Cancel unused subscriptions
- Cook at home a few extra nights a week
- Shop secondhand for certain big-ticket items
These small changes can free up thousands toward your down payment without touching your travel fund.
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Look for Fixer-Upper Homes
A fixer-upper can be an incredible way to get into a great neighborhood. If maintaining your lifestyle is important, choose a home that’s got a few projects that you can tackle with sweat equity and save money when youre buying.
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Think Long-Term Wealth, Not Short-Term Sacrifice
The earlier you buy, the sooner you start building equity. Even if your first home isn’t your “forever home,” it can become a stepping stone to something bigger down the road—and those brunch dates and vacations will be even sweeter knowing you own an appreciating asset.
Buying a home in Suffolk County, NY—whether in Stony Brook, Port Jefferson, Huntington, or nearby—doesn’t have to mean giving up the life you love. With smart budgeting, the right financing, and a local agent who gets your goals, you can have it all: a home you love and the freedom to enjoy it.
📩 Ready to buy without losing your lifestyle? Download my free First-Time Homebuyer Guide for local tips, budgeting strategies, and everything you need to own a home on Long Island and keep living your best life.
Shaughnessy Dusling
Licensed Associate Broker
The McKenna Team
ΓEA⅃ Broker NY
O-855.450.0442
150 Motor Parkway St 401
Hauppauge NY 11788
Cell: 631.612.1616