In Episode 15 of The Fitze Is Right, Maryland realtor Jen Fitze tackles the biggest debate in real estate right now — is it actually impossible to buy a home if you're under 40 in 2026?

The average first-time home buyer age in America is now 40, according to the National Association of Realtors. It's climbed from the low 30s over the past decade. But Jen says that stat is misleading — and she has the proof.

Jen just helped multiple buyers under 25 purchase their first homes. Her youngest buyer ever was 19 years old. A 25-year-old teacher with a 2-year-old just closed last week. And Jocelynn, who appeared on a previous episode, bought at 24 while self-employed and fresh out of debt.

So why does everyone think it's impossible? Jen breaks down the five biggest myths stopping young people from buying: you need 20% down (you don't — FHA is 3.5%, VA and USDA are 0%), you need perfect credit (minimum is 580-620, not 800), you can't buy with student loans (you can), you need a high income (a teacher just did it), and the market is going to crash so you should wait (it's not, and you can't time it).

She also reveals what most agents and lenders won't tell you about grants and assistance programs. There are first-time buyer grants that cover down payments and closing costs — some you never have to pay back. There are specific grants for first responders, teachers, and nurses. And in Maryland, first-time buyers get a break on state recordation taxes worth approximately $7,800 that most people don't even know exists.

The episode covers the real barriers young people face — cost of living increases, student loan debt, wages that haven't kept up with housing prices, and a rental market where you can't find anything under $2,000. Jen doesn't sugarcoat it. But she also doesn't let young people use those barriers as excuses to self-disqualify without even trying.

Her verdict: It is NOT impossible. But you have to be smart, stop overspending, ask for help, and reach out to a lender six months before you think you're ready. And stop buying coffee every day.

In this episode you'll learn: → Why the average buyer age of 40 is misleading → The 5 biggest myths stopping young people from buying → Every loan type and the actual minimum down payment for each → The minimum credit score you actually need → Grants and programs most buyers don't know exist → The $7,800 Maryland tax break for first-time buyers → What Jen's youngest buyer (19 years old) did to make it work → The exact steps to take starting today if you want to buy

New episodes weekly. Follow Jen Fitze on social media for daily real estate tips.

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WORK WITH JEN: Buying or selling a home in Maryland? Jen has over 20 years of experience helping families in Harford County, Baltimore County, and beyond. Reach out at jensellsmd@gmail.com