Hi Caleb,
Just wanted to let you know, that whatever you want is the type of home you should be looking for! As a Realtor we are bound to only show you homes that are in the price range you give us (based on your meeting with a reputable lender) and with the amenities you wish, so long as it does not violate Fair housing or our ethical obligations. There are several things you may wish to consider, size of yard, size of home (these obviouly relate to upkeep), your real estate taxes, any Homeowner association dues and what they offer you for those $$$ and availability of amenities such as grocery stores, hospitals, public transportation, etc.
I noticed you are in the 27406 area (where I live and my area of specialty). Did you want to stay in that area or explore others? If you choose a county property, you may not have as high taxes as in the city, but then you have less amenities. Taking advantage of the first time home buyers incentive would go a long way in your posibilities. I suggest you talk to a lender and then find a good Realtor to assist you. And I would LOVE to help!!

GOOD LUCK!

Caleb,
Len is correct that as licensed Realtor's we cannot comment on neighborhood makeup. As far as a lively community there are things you can look for as far as active HOA's and other community orgainizations. Or maybe you just need to look for housing near some of your favorite places to frequent. I have had a number of younger clientele mostly first time home buyers that are looking for their first home to buy. A consideration you need to have is to buy a good value in a good neighborhood that is going to be a good investment for you. You want your new home to appreciate in value not depreciate. So of course depending on your price range and needs there are plenty of single family homes, condominiums, and townhouses out there that are available that you might find fit your needs.

If you are not already working with an agent feel free to contact me through my profile here on Trulia or through one of my websites listed below.

Hope this helps,

Caleb,
Many real estate companies can help you find a home. Problem is you have to do some work too.
Go to http://www.century21.com type in your parameters and have fun looking at what's available. When you find something in your price range then you can contact an agent and go look at your choices.
There are no particular listings that target certain groups but right now there are plenty of homes for you to choose from.
Good luck!
Art Hademan
arthademan@comcast.net

Hi Caleb,
I don't know where you live, but in my area many of the counties have special programs for buyers in your situation. However, there are a lot of stipulations, so it is a good idea to contact a Realtor, who specializes in your area. He/she could refer you to a Lender, that is familiar with first-time-home-buyer programs, to see if you qualify for a loan.
Good luck,
Barb Novak, Realtor
Schaumburg, Illinois

Talk with your friends and co-workers about where they live and how they like it. That will be your best indicator of a area or neighborhood that you my like. In any event, good luck. andy

Hi Caleb,

I am not aware of any communities that "target" college grads. In fact, that could possibly fall into a crime known as "steering." Many townhome, condos or subdivisions may be inhabitied by predominantly a more youthful group. But I would suggest that you speak with a REALTOR and discuss some of the activities you would like to be convenient to the area you will ultimately live and then, after viewing some of the homes, go back on your own to areas you have an interest in and maybe knock on some doors and introduce yourself and ask the neighbors about the neighborhood. No one can tell you more about the area than those who live there. And the real estate agent is restricted to speaking on certain subjects that may infringe on a protected class. Hope this helps. If I can be of further assistance, please let me know.