Market Trends

The market in Germantown is active, home values have been increasing over the years. As of 2025 the median home price is around $350,000 but prices vary depending on location and amenities. First time buyers should be ready to move fast when they find a home they love as demand is high.

Germantown includes a comprehensive historical overview, detailing its early settlement by German and Irish immigrants, the establishment of its agricultural economy, and the incorporation of various hamlets. The community has evolved over time, including its commercial developments and demographic changes, ultimately leading to Germantown's present-day status as a suburban village housing around 20,000 residents.

Exploring Germantown Neighborhoods

Germantown is a charming village with a rich history and diverse neighborhoods. The village includes seven hamlets: Dheinsville, South Germantown, Rockfield, Goldenthal (Goldendale), Willow Creek, Kuhberg, and Meeker Hill. Each neighborhood has its unique character and charm, offering a range of housing options, from historic homes to modern developments.

Dheinsville, the oldest settlement in Germantown, is a popular neighborhood with a strong sense of community. The area is home to the Christ Evangelical Church, founded by Philip Dhein in 1842, and features a mix of historic homes, shops, and restaurants.

South Germantown, on the other hand, is a more suburban neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and condominiums. The area is known for its excellent schools, parks, and community amenities.

Rockfield, Goldenthal, and Willow Creek are smaller neighborhoods with a more rural feel. These areas offer a peaceful and serene living environment, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Kuhberg and Meeker Hill are two of the newer neighborhoods in Germantown, with modern homes and amenities. These areas are popular with families and young professionals looking for a convenient and affordable place to live.

Loan Options for First Time Homebuyers

Buying your first home can be overwhelming but there are many mortgage options to make homeownership more affordable:

• FHA Loans – 3.5% down and great for buyers with lower credit scores.
• VA Loans – For eligible veterans and active military with zero down.
• USDA Loans – For buyers in rural areas 100% financing.
• Conventional Loans – Higher credit score but competitive rates and flexible down payment options.
• WHEDA Loans – Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) has special loan programs for first time homebuyers with lower down payments and better terms. Homebuyers receiving a down payment assistance loan must meet residency obligations based on the loan amount: those with loans of $40,000 or less must live in the purchased home for at least 10 years, while those with larger loans have a 15-year residency requirement.

Down Payment Assistance Programs and Closing Costs

First time homebuyers in Wisconsin may be eligible for down payment assistance programs:

• WHEDA Easy Close DPA – Assistance for down payment and closing costs.
• Local Grants and Programs – Some Germantown area lenders and organizations offer assistance to qualified buyers.

Steps to Buying Your First Home in Germantown, Washington County

1. Check Your Finances – Review your credit score, savings and debt to see how much home you can afford.
2. Germantown, historically designated as 'Town Nine' within the Wisconsin Territory, holds significant importance in local history and governance.
3. Get Pre-Approved – Work with a mortgage professional (like Joonago Mortgage Services) to get pre-approved for a loan and get a leg up when making offers.
4. Realtor – A good real estate agent will guide you through the process and find the right home for you.
5. House Hunting – Tour homes in your budget and consider location, neighborhood and resale value.
6. Make an Offer – Once you find the perfect home your agent will help you negotiate the price.
7. Home Inspection & Appraisal – Make sure the home is in good shape and the value matches the purchase price.
8. Close – Finalize your loan, sign the papers and get the keys to your new home!

Home Rehabilitation and Renovation

Germantown offers a range of resources for homeowners looking to rehabilitate or renovate their homes. The village has a number of programs and incentives in place to support home improvement projects, including the WHEDA Advantage Home Improvement Loan Program (HILP) and the WHEDA Advantage Conventional HomeStyle Renovation program.

The WHEDA Advantage Home Improvement Loan Program (HILP) provides financing for home improvements, such as adding square footage or installing a new furnace. The program is designed to help homeowners make needed repairs and improvements to their homes.

The WHEDA Advantage Conventional HomeStyle Renovation program allows homeowners to finance home renovations through a single loan. This program is an extension of the WHEDA Advantage Conventional First Mortgage Program and can be used to finance a wide range of renovation projects.

In addition to these programs, Germantown also offers a number of resources and incentives for homeowners looking to rehabilitate or renovate their homes. These include low-interest loans, grants, and tax credits.

Why Joonago Mortgage Services?

At Joonago Mortgage Services we help first time homebuyers in Germantown and beyond. We know the challenges of buying your first home and will provide personalized service to make the process easy and stress free. From loan options to advice we’re here for you every step of the way.

Additional Resources and Next Steps

If you’re considering purchasing a home in Germantown, there are a number of additional resources and next steps to consider.

First, it’s a good idea to review the program guidelines for the WHEDA Down Payment Assistance Programs. These programs can provide up to 100% financing for qualified homebuyers, and can be used in conjunction with a WHEDA first mortgage.

Next, you’ll want to research the purchase price limits for existing homes in Germantown. The village has a number of programs and incentives in place to support affordable housing, and there may be restrictions on the purchase price of homes in certain neighborhoods.

You’ll also want to consider the closing costs associated with purchasing a home in Germantown. These costs can include fees for title insurance, appraisal, and inspection, as well as other expenses.

Finally, it’s a good idea to review the approval process for the WHEDA Down Payment Assistance Programs. This will help you understand the requirements and timeline for approval, and ensure that you’re prepared for the next steps in the process.

By following these steps and taking advantage of the resources available, you can find the perfect home in Germantown and start building a brighter future for yourself and your family.

Ready to Buy Your First Home?

If you’re looking to buy a home in Germantown, WI contact Joe Huljak at Joonago Mortgage Services today! We’ll help you explore your loan options, down payment assistance programs and walk you through the entire home buying process.

Let’s make your dream of homeownership a reality!