Stillwater · First-Time Buyers
Your First Home in Stillwater
Learn how buying works before you shop, explained in plain words, so you know what you're signing.
Buying your first home in Stillwater
First-time buyers often fall for Stillwater's river setting and older homes, then wonder what owning one really costs. I'm Lesley, a REALTOR® with Bridge Realty, and we help you answer that with real numbers.
Can a first-time buyer afford Stillwater? It depends on the home and its condition. The Census median value of an owner-occupied home was $414,200 for 2020 to 2024, a survey figure and not today's prices. Compare the full monthly payment, including property tax, before you rule anything in or out.
Ask Me Your First Question
What first-time buyers should check in Stillwater
- The age of the home. Older homes in neighborhoods such as South Hill have charm, and also a roof, foundation, and wiring to check.
- Exterior rules. Some areas have historic or design review, which can affect what you change later.
- Property taxes. Washington County's property tax lookup shows the current tax for any address, and the city also has a property information lookup.
- Trash service. Stillwater uses one hauler, Waste Management, for all homes, billed quarterly. Add it to your monthly budget.
What it costs, and the help available
Plan for four costs: earnest money with your offer, the inspection, your down payment, and closing costs. Down payments are often far less than 20 percent, and assistance may be available if you qualify. If your credit needs work, a lender can give you a plan. Our first-time buyer page explains each cost, and getting ready covers pre-approval. Comparing with a neighboring city? See Oakdale.
Ask us your first question about Stillwater
You do not have to be ready to buy. Bring your questions, and you will leave with a plan. More on the river, parks, and commute is on our Stillwater page, and the steps are on how we help buyers.
Send us a message or call (651) 661-4770.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an older home a sensible first purchase in Stillwater?
It can be. Get a full inspection, ask about past updates, and check whether the home is in a historic or design review area before you buy.
How much do I need for a down payment in Stillwater?
Often less than 20 percent. Some loans allow as little as 3 percent down, and assistance may be available if you qualify.
Is there a bus from Stillwater to St. Paul?
Yes. Metro Transit Route 294 runs between downtown St. Paul and Stillwater, with a park-and-ride at the St. Croix Valley Rec Center.
Get your home plan
Tell Us About The Home You Want
Homes For Sale In Stillwater
See every home on the market in Stillwater right now, updated from the MLS.
Stillwater
What first-time buyers looks like in Stillwater
Stillwater sits on the St. Croix River in Washington County, with a historic downtown, the 1931 Lift Bridge, and a nearly five-mile river loop trail.
Stillwater is a river city we know well, close to Lake Elmo, Oakdale, and Woodbury, and its older homes take a careful look before you buy.
- The homes
- Historic homes in older neighborhoods such as South Hill. Exterior changes in a designated historic district may need city review.
- Schools people ask about
- Stillwater Area Public Schools (District 834) serves Stillwater and 17 other communities. Confirm the assigned school for any address.
- Getting around
- Metro Transit Route 294 runs between downtown St. Paul and Stillwater, with a park-and-ride at the St. Croix Valley Rec Center.
- Nearby
- The St. Croix River, the 1931 Lift Bridge, and a nearly five-mile bicycle and pedestrian loop trail into Wisconsin.
- The trade-off
- Downtown sits in a historic district on the river, so parking is managed with permits and time limits, and some exterior projects need design review.
First-Time Buyers: keep exploring
Ready to make your move with Lesley The Realtor?