If you've been paying attention to the state of the real estate market during the past several years, you've probably heard about the rising difficulties in affording homes. On the other hand, analysts believe that significant strides will be made this year in addressing the problems that contribute to unaffordable housing.
Property prices, mortgage rates, and earnings are the three factors considered when determining whether or not a home can be afforded. A more in-depth look at each of them is provided here.
1. Interest Rates on Mortgages
The previous year saw an increase in mortgage rates to above 7%, which caused many prospective buyers to put their plans on hold. However, things are starting to take on a new appearance as interest rates have begun to decline.
Even a moderate rate shift can affect your ability to make purchases.
If interest rates of 7% forced you to put your plans to purchase a home on hold a year ago, this could be the chance you've been waiting for to get back into the game. Be sure to collaborate with a group of knowledgeable realtors who are up to date on the most recent information on mortgage rates and can provide you with the most helpful guidance applicable to the current market.
2. The Cost of Housing
The cost of housing is the second element to consider. The dramatic increase in the price of housing during the epidemic has been a topic of discussion in the news throughout the past several years.
As a result, although prices in some markets will remain unchanged this year, those in others could experience minuscule price increases or increases. It is dependent on the region that you are in. Get in touch with reputable real estate experts to gain insight into what is occurring in your market and how the prices affect homes' affordability.
3. Wages
Wages make up the last part of the equation that determines affordability. The following graph, which was created with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), illustrates how salaries have grown over time as follows:
When considering how much you can afford, remember there is more to the picture than simply the interest rates and costs of mortgages. In addition to that, wages have to be taken into consideration. Many purchasers now have fresh opportunities in the market as a result of pay increases that have been occurring.
Homebuyers confronted with increasing difficulties might anticipate some relief in 2023, based on existing patterns and estimates, even though affordability barriers will not be eliminated in the current year.
Bottom Line
If you have questions, let's connect. You should also make sure that you have a reliable lender so that you may investigate your many possibilities for obtaining finance. Buying a home is farther away than you think it is.
