Ask any real estate expert about the most important factor in buying a home, and you'll hear the same thing: location, location, location. It's a cliché because it's true — and for today's first-time buyers, it's also one of the biggest hurdles. Finding a place that checks the boxes for lifestyle and amenities while staying within budget is no small feat in an era of record prices and high interest rates.

To help, finance site Wallethub ranked 300 U.S. markets on quality of life, market attractiveness and affordability, naming the top 10 cities for first-time buyers.

We spoke with local real estate pros in each of these cities to learn why they stand out — and why new homeowners are putting down roots there.