Renters Paying Substantially More While Owning Costs Less
In a recent Insights Blog, CoreLogic reported that rent prices have skyrocketed since 2005. Meanwhile, the typical mortgage payment has actually decreased.
“CoreLogic’s national rent index was up 36% in December 2018 compared with December 2005, while the typical mortgage payment was down 4% over that period.”
Why the difference between the costs of renting versus owning?
It makes sense that rents have risen. However, how did mortgage payments decrease? CoreLogic explained:
“It’s mainly because mortgage rates back in December 2005 were significantly higher, averaging 6.3% for a fixed-rate 30-year loan, compared with 4.6% in December 2018.
The national median sale price in December 2005 – $190,000 – was lower than the $220,305 median in December 2018, but because of higher mortgage rates in 2005 the typical monthly mortgage payment was slightly higher back then – $941 – compared with $904 in December 2018.”
Additionally, a recent report by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) showed that purchasing a home requires less of your monthly paycheck.
According to the Economists’ Outlook Blog, NAR’s February 2019 Housing Affordability Index showed that the “percentage of income needed” to pay the typical mortgage has decreased the last three months.
- November – 17.3%
- December – 16.9%
- January – 16.2%
- February – 15.9%
Bottom Line
What does this all mean to the current housing market? We think First American said it best in a post last week:
“The mortgage rate-driven affordability surge has arrived just in time… Rising affordability has already benefited home buyers and, if the lower rate environment persists, we’re in for a great spring home-buying season.”
To view original article, visit Keeping Current Matters.
Don’t Fall for These Real Estate Agent Myths
Don’t let myths keep you from the expert guidance you deserve. A trusted local real estate agent isn’t just helpful, they’re invaluable.
The Down Payment Assistance You Didn’t Know About
Believe it or not, almost 80% of first-time homebuyers qualify for down payment assistance, but only 13% actually use it.
Is Your House Priced Too High?
Pricing your house correctly is one of the most crucial steps in the selling process and if you’re asking too much you may be turning potential buyers away.
Falling Mortgage Rates Are Bringing Buyers Back
If you’ve been hesitant to list your house because you’re worried no one’s buying, here’s your sign it may be time to talk with an agent.
Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest Level in over a Year and a Half
Mortgage rates have fallen more than half a percent . . . and are at their lowest level since February 2023.
The Best Time to Buy a Home This Year
Mortgage rates just hit their lowest point in 19 months, and that goes a long way to help with your purchasing power and affordability. Are you ready to buy?