First-Time Homebuyers

Affordability for first-time homebuyers: Beyond rates and prices

We’ve all heard the refrain: it’s never been harder to buy your first home. The narrative almost always circles back to two usual suspects – mortgage rates and home prices. While rates and prices are undeniably visible and powerful levers, they are not the whole story. For industry insiders, the challenge (and the opportunity) lies […]

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Real estate leaders praise federal housing action, stress first-time buyer help

For Keith Robinson, co-CEO of NextHome, the surge of federal attention on the housing shortage is a positive first step — but one that must be tempered by patience and practicality. “I’m ecstatic that it’s a conversation now, because that’s the first step,” Robinson said. “It’s gone from no one talking about it to it’s

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Gen Z homeowners report higher insurance company dissatisfaction

A new survey from Kin Insurance suggests that Gen Z homeowners are less satisfied with their home insurance providers than older generations, citing poor customer service and claims experiences rather than cost as their main frustrations. Findings highlight a growing disconnect between digital-native Gen Z homeowners — born between 1997 and 2012 — and the

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Colorado housing market sees wider price cuts ahead of ski season

Colorado’s housing market shows a statewide median list price of $649,900 with 22,890 active listings, according to HW Data. Nearly half of active listings recorded a price reduction during the week. New supply totaled 1,441 listings while 1,869 homes moved under contract. Inventory gives shoppers more choice An active inventory near 23,000 listings expands options

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Illinois offers affordable entry points for first-time buyers

Illinois stands out for affordability as sales stay competitive. HW Data’s Oct. 3 report shows a statewide median list price of $317,000 with 16,108 active listings. The Market Action Index continues to lower and about 36% of active listings recorded a price reduction during the week. New supply totaled 1,810 listings while 2,103 homes moved

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High rents and growing inventory create room to convert renters

Rent prices remain high as for-sale supply expands. HW Data shows median rent holding at $2,295, while the for-sale side offers more room to maneuver. The median list price is $444,900 and active inventory stands at 863,972 homes nationwide, giving buyers more choice than earlier in the year. For-sale market edges toward balance HousingWire’s national

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Better, Xactus executives on balancing innovation with consumer needs

As the mortgage banking landscape evolves, industry leaders shared their approaches to playing offense as they try to balance new technology and a complex lending environment. At HousingWire’s Mortgage Banking Summit on Tuesday, Misti Snow, SVP of operations at Better and Sasha Stair, Xactus‘ chief marketing officer, shared that as the mortgage sector is experiencing

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Help exists for cash-strapped homebuyers — but many don’t know it

As home prices and mortgage rates continue to stretch budgets, many would-be homebuyers are wondering if they’ll ever be able to make the jump. Industry professionals say that creative financing tools and professional guidance can make homeownership more attainable, but a lack of awareness continues to stand in the way. Three voices from different corners

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North Carolina housing market offers 20% price advantage over national average

The North Carolina housing market delivers significant value for homebuyers. Current data shows 62,710 active listings with an average home price of $519,908. This represents a 19.7% discount compared to the national average of $647,307. The Tar Heel State provides abundant options for first-time buyers, with more than one-third of all listings priced below $300,000.

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Ohio property tax debate intensifies

Efforts to abolish or deeply reform property taxes are gaining momentum in multiple states — including Ohio — where impassioned debate has cited potential funding shortfalls for local services, seniors being prices out of homes and further effects on the housing market. Howard Fleeter, an economist with the Ohio Education Policy Institute who has worked

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