How to Buy a House in West Virginia
Updated 2026-03-02 | Data from Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
Avg Home Price
$169,759
Closing Costs
$10,349
6.1% of price
Property Tax Rate
0.48%
$653/yr median
Days on Market
62
Median
FHA Loan Limit
$472,030
Attorney Required
Yes
Foreclosure Type
Non-Judicial
Transfer Tax
0.33%
$1.10 per $500 (+ $0.55)
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Key Facts About Buying in West Virginia
- ✓One of the most affordable states to buy
- ✓Attorney required at closing
- ✓Low property taxes at 0.58%
- ✓Longer days on market — buyer-friendly conditions
The Home Buying Process in West Virginia
Buying a home in West Virginia follows a 10-step process. As an attorney state, you'll need legal representation at closing.
1
Check Your Credit Score & Finances
2
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
3
Find a Real Estate Agent
4
Search for Homes & Make an Offer
5
Get a Home Inspection
6
Secure Your Financing
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First-Time Buyer Programs in West Virginia
WVHDF Homeownership Program
Below-market rate mortgages
Below-market rates + DPA optionsIncome: Up to $84,640
Cost of Buying a Home in West Virginia
| Down Payment (3.5% FHA) | $5,942 |
| Down Payment (20% Conventional) | $33,952 |
| Average Closing Costs | $10,349 |
| Transfer Tax | $560 |
| Annual Property Tax (est.) | $815/yr |
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Legal & Regulatory Details in West Virginia
Homestead Exemption
Available
Up to $35,000
Licensing Authority
West Virginia Real Estate Commission
West Virginia Real Estate Law Overview
| Conveyance Document | General-warranty, special-warranty or quitclaim deed |
| Security Instrument | Deed of trust; mortgage sometimes used |
| Foreclosure Process | Non-Judicial |
| Attorney Required at Closing | Yes |
| Deficiency Judgment | Yes |
| Redemption After Sale | No |
| Reinstatement Available | Yes |
| Seller Disclosures | Sellers must disclose issues affecting water/sewage systems, structural defects, and problems with heating, air-conditioning, electrical and plumbing systems. They must reveal zoning violations, illegal activities (e.g., meth labs) and environmental hazards (lead paint, radon, mold, asbestos, mining). Disclosures must cover insulation, chimneys/fireplaces and problems with smoke detectors, water damage, drainage and soil. |
