Starter Home, Not Dream Home: How Renters Can Become Owners in Chattanooga
Feeling like you’ve missed your chance to buy your first home? You’re not alone—and you’re not behind. In this episode, Blake Watson of Epique Realty breaks down the real reasons why so many people in their 30s and 40s are still renting in the Chattanooga and Northwest Georgia area, and what you can do to take your first step into homeownership.
He talks about how rising prices, debt burdens, and outdated beliefs about down payments are creating roadblocks for first-time buyers, and how to overcome them. Whether you’re dreaming of North Shore or just want a clean starter in Red Bank or East Ridge, this episode will reset your mindset and give you practical strategies for making 2026 your year to buy.
What You’ll Learn:
Why the average age of first-time buyers has shifted to 40
Chattanooga area price increases: $230K in 2020 to $330K in 2025
The importance of the “stepping stone” mindset vs. dream-home expectations
How to identify hidden value in overlooked neighborhoods
Why your debt-to-income ratio matters more than your income
How car loans and credit cards could be killing your mortgage potential
Tips for reducing your debt and improving affordability
The truth about down payments, and why 20% is a myth
Programs and strategies to bridge the gap between savings and what you need
Locations mentioned for First-Time Buyers:
East Ridge, Red Bank, Highland Park, Brainerd, Hixson, Chickamauga, Fort Oglethorpe,
Ringgold, Lafayette
Who This Episode Is For:
Renters in the Chattanooga area feeling left behind
Buyers frustrated by prices and debt
Anyone believing they need 20% down to buy
Host:
Blake Watson is a Realtor and real estate investor based in Chattanooga, TN, and Northwest Georgia. He’s passionate about helping everyday people make smart real estate decisions.
Find Blake on LinkedIn and Facebook as Blake Watson, and on Instagram @rocknrollblake. His website is athomechattanooga.com
The Epique Realty office phone is 888.893.3537.