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Joe Huljak • January 10, 2025

First Time Home Buyers in Sussex, WI: Buying a Home with Ease

Are you a first-time home buyer in Sussex, WI and want to own your own home? The process can be overwhelming but with the right information and resources it doesn’t have to be. Sussex is a beautiful village in Waukesha County, WI with a great community, good schools and a high quality of life – it’s a great place to put down roots. Whether you are moving to the Sussex area or have already lived here, I’ll walk you through the home buying process, loan programs and tips to help you find your dream home. 


Why Sussex, WI is a Great Place to Live

Sussex is a village that has it all. Just northwest of Milwaukee, it has all the urban amenities but still has a small-town feel. With its parks, trails and community events, Sussex is perfect for families, professionals and anyone looking for a balanced lifestyle. If you are a first-time home buyer in Sussex, WI you will find a range of housing options to suit your needs from cozy starter homes to larger homes that can grow with your family.


Benefits of Homeownership in Sussex, WI

Owning a home in Sussex, WI, comes with a multitude of benefits that can enhance your financial stability and quality of life. One of the most significant advantages is the opportunity to build equity in your property. As you pay down your mortgage, you increase your ownership stake in your home, which can become a valuable asset over time. This equity can be leveraged for future financial needs or investments.


Homeownership also provides a sense of stability and permanence. When you own your home, you have the freedom to personalize and improve your property, creating a space that truly reflects your lifestyle and preferences. This sense of ownership fosters a deeper connection to the community and allows you to put down roots in Sussex.


Living in Sussex, WI, also means becoming part of a vibrant and welcoming community. The village hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, providing ample opportunities to connect with your neighbors and participate in local traditions. With its proximity to the Kettle Moraine State Forest and the Ice Age Trail, Sussex offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities, making it an ideal place for nature enthusiasts.

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Sussex, WI Community Information

Nestled in Waukesha County, Sussex, WI, is a charming village that offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and urban convenience. Located just 20 miles west of Milwaukee, Sussex provides easy access to the city’s amenities while maintaining a peaceful, close-knit community atmosphere.


With a population of around 9,000 residents, Sussex is known for its friendly and welcoming environment. The village is served by the highly regarded Hamilton School District, which includes a preschool, four elementary schools, an intermediate school, a middle school, and a high school. This ensures that families have access to quality education for their children.

The Pauline Haass Public Library, a member of the Bridges Library System, is another valuable resource for residents, offering a wide range of programs and services for all ages.


Sussex is home to several major employers, including Quad/Graphics, which has its headquarters in the village. This provides local job opportunities and contributes to the village’s economic stability.


The Home Buying Process

The home buying process can be overwhelming but breaking it down into smaller steps makes it more manageable. Here’s a rundown of what to expect:

  1. Determine Your Budget: Before you start looking at homes you need to know how much home you can afford. Consider your income, monthly expenses and savings to determine a comfortable price range. Talk to a mortgage professional like Joe Huljak of Joonago Mortgage Services to get a clear picture of your financial situation.
  2. Loan Programs: As a first time home buyer in Sussex, WI you may qualify for special loan programs that make homeownership more accessible. For example, FHA loans are good for buyers with lower credit scores or smaller down payments, which are typically 3.5% of the purchase price of a home. Other programs like those offered by the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) can provide additional help.
  3. Get Pre-Approved: A pre-approval letter shows sellers you are a serious buyer and can afford the home. This involves providing documentation of your income, assets and credit history to a lender.
  4. Find Your Home: Work with a real estate agent to search for homes in the Sussex area that fit your needs. Consider location, size and proximity to schools or work.
  5. Make an Offer: Once you have found your home your real estate agent will help you write an offer. This is where having a pre-approval letter will give you an advantage.
  6. Close the Deal: After your offer is accepted you will move towards closing. This involves finalizing your loan, doing a home inspection and signing the paperwork. Closing costs will include fees for the loan, title search and property taxes.
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First Time Home Buyer Loan Programs

As a first-time home buyer in Sussex, WI you have several loan programs to choose from. Here are a few:

  • FHA Loans: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration FHA loans are good for buyers with lower credit scores or limited savings for a down payment. These loans require as little as 3.5% down and have competitive rates.
  • Conventional Loans: Not government backed and require a higher credit score and down payment. But conventional loans might be a good option for buyers with a strong financial profile.
  • WHEDA Loans: The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority has programs for first time home buyers in the state. These programs have low interest rates and down payment assistance.
  • VA Loans: If you’ve served in the military you may qualify for a VA loan which has no down payment and great terms.
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First Time Home Buyer Tips in Sussex, WI

  1. Start Saving Early: In addition to your down payment you’ll need to account for closing costs, moving expenses and an emergency fund. Saving early will help you avoid financial stress down the road.
  2. Check Your Credit: Your credit score will impact your interest rate and loan approval. Review your credit report and fix any issues before applying for a mortgage.
  3. Work with a Local Expert: Partner with a mortgage professional like me, Joe Huljak of Joonago Mortgage Services. I’ve been serving the Sussex area for years and can help you find the right loan program for you.
  4. Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Whether you have questions about the home buying process or need clarification on loan terms your mortgage professional is there to help.
  5. Think Long Term: Your first home doesn’t have to be your forever home but it’s important to choose a home that meets your needs for the next few years. Consider school districts, commute times and future resale value.


Why Joonago Mortgage Services?

Joonago Mortgage Services helps first time home buyers in Sussex, WI achieve their dream of homeownership. With years of experience and knowledge of the local market, I can guide you through the entire process from pre-approval to closing. Whether you need information on FHA loans, WHEDA programs or conventional mortgages, I’ve got you covered.


Get Started?

If you’re a first-time home buyer in Sussex, WI now is the time to get started. With low rates and many loan programs to choose from you can find a mortgage that fits your budget and lifestyle. Contact Joonago Mortgage Services today, and let’s get you into your first home!

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