First Time Home Buyer in DC

[Sima Meh]

I am a first time home buyer and interested in a SFH. I have a budget of $500-575K. I have a kid who goes to school in NE (Brookland).

1. Looking at the rising housing and mortgage prices, do you think this is the right time for me to buy or should I wait for sometime?

2. Which areas would you suggest for me in NE and SE which are within my budget, considered decent to live in as a single parent and not too far from my kid's school? Some of the areas I have shortlisted in NE are Manor Park, Michigan Park and Riggs Park. Please feel free to add locations in NE and SE DC.