The ‘REAL’ News about Housing Affordability

Some industry experts are claiming that the housing market may be headed for a slowdown as we proceed through 2017, based on rising home prices and a potential jump in mortgage interest rates. One of the data points they use is the Housing Affordability Index, as reported by the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

Here is how NAR defines the index:

“The Housing Affordability Index measures whether or not a typical family earns enough income to qualify for a mortgage loan on a typical home at the national level based on the most recent price and income data.”

Basically, a value of 100 means a family earning the median income earns enough to qualify for a mortgage on a median-priced home, based on the price and mortgage interest rates at the time. Anything above 100 means the family has more than enough to qualify.

The higher the index, the easier it is to afford a home.

Why the concern?

The index has been declining over the last several years as home values increased. Some are concerned that too many buyers could be priced out of the market.

But, wait a minute…

Though the index skyrocketed from 2009 through 2013, we must realize that during that time, the housing crisis left the market with an overabundance of distressed properties (foreclosures and short sales). All prices dropped dramatically and distressed properties sold at major discounts. Then, mortgage rates fell like a rock.

The market is recovering, and values are coming back nicely. That has caused the index to fall.

However, let’s remove the crisis years (shaded in gray) and look at the current index as compared to the index from 1990 – 2008:

Though prices and rates appear to be increasing, we must realize that affordability is composed of three ingredients: home prices, interest rates, and income. And, incomes are finally rising.

ATTOM Data Solutions recently released their Q1 2017 U.S. Home Affordability Index. The report explained:

“Stronger wage growth is the silver lining in this report, outpacing home price growth in more than half of the markets for the first time since Q1 2012, when median home prices were still falling nationwide. If that pattern continues, it will help turn the tide in the eroding home affordability trend.”

Bottom Line

Compared to historic norms, it is still a great time to buy from an affordability standpoint.  Give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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22864 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$598,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,264 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779182

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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2910 S Miller Drive Chandler, AZ 85286

$598,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,298 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6719371

Property Type Single Family Residence

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Beautiful 3-bedroom home with a versatile downstairs den that can easily serve as a fourth bedroom with a bathroom for guest quarters or generational living. Located just 1 mile from Chandler Crossroads and the 202 freeway, this home offers both convenience and accessibility, all while sitting on a huge lot that backs onto a greenbelt. BRAND NEW exterior paint, garage floor epoxy, and cool deck refinishing all completed 10/1/2024. Inside, you'll find tall 9 ft+ ceilings and elegant wood floors. The home also features a water softener, new a/c units in 2020, and a garage storage rack system. With an optimal floorplan including a formal living and dining room, family room, a den, and a full bathroom on the main floor and three bedrooms including the master suite with soaking tub and walk-in closet upstairs. The kitchen features granite countertops, a large walk-in pantry, stainless steel appliances, and a breakfast bar. With a fully landscaped front and back yard, tons of greenery and privacy, private pebble-tec pool, extended concrete decking, and a spacious lawn perfect for kids to play on, a covered patio, and an added storage shed to store your lawn and pool supplies. This one is a must see!

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13607 W Springdale Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$598,700

2 Beds

2 Baths

3,291 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768546

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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302 W Oak Avenue Unit 3 Flagstaff, AZ 86001

$598,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,085 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733268

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

TO BE BUILT...Welcome to modern living in the heart of Flagstaff - a collection of contemporary detached homes that redefine luxury and convenience. Nestled against the backdrop of the stunning mountains, step into a world where architectural brilliance meets nature's beauty. The community boasts a sleek and contemporary design that seamlessly integrates with the natural surroundings. Plentiful glass allows ample natural light to flood the interiors, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living. Clean lines, high ceilings, and thoughtfully designed spaces provide an open and airy atmosphere making each home a sanctuary of modern sophistication. Wake up to the awe-inspiring sight of the mountains right outside your window (Select Lots Only).

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2805 W Wayne Lane Anthem, AZ 85086

$598,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,560 SqFt

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MLS # 6767232

Property Type Single Family Residence

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17863 E Paria Canyon Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$598,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,543 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778318

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move in ready home located at Trilogy! Be welcome by the delightful curb appeal showcasing a paver driveway, enclosed front patio, & a 2-car garage w/a 4ft extension for golf cars & service door. Inside, discover the stunning high ceilings, tile flooring, & soothing palette. The great room features bountiful natural light, an inviting brick fireplace, & backyard access. The eat-in kitchen provides hardwood cabinets w/crown moldings, SS appliances, granite counters, a walk-in pantry, & a center island w/breakfast bar. The main bedroom boasts soft plush carpet & an ensuite with w/dual sinks, sit-down shower, & a walk-in closet. Enjoy the relaxing covered patio in the sizable backyard & host fun gatherings... Take advantage of all the wonderful sights and amenities that this community offers, like the Sports courts, recreational room, Community pool, walking distance to dog parks and lakes & so much more! Don't miss it!

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12744 N 146th Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$598,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,470 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6777807

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Pride of ownership is shown in this beautiful 4-bedroom home that has been tastefully renewed! Meticulously designed interior features carpet & wood-look tile flooring, fresh neutral palette, and an inviting living room. Wide sliding glass doors in the HUGE great room connect you to the back patio, improving your indoor-outdoor living experience. Upscale kitchen comes complete w/recessed & pendant lighting, granite counters, a prep island w/a breakfast bar, ample white cabinetry topped w/crown moulding, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, and subway tile backsplash. Surely to impress w/the primary retreat, boasting a trendy barn door to the ensuite comprised of two vanities, a large enclosed glass shower, and a walk-in closet. This gem includes a 2nd main bedroom w/a bathroom! You'll definitely love the wonderful backyard w/a covered patio and sparkling pool. Don't miss!

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4220 N 32nd Street Unit 1 Phoenix, AZ 85018

$598,000

2 Beds

3 Baths

1,406 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6782931

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Introducing the epitome of modern patio home living in the heart of Arcadia - welcome home to the Arcadian Phoenix. Nestled in the coveted 85018 area code, these modern townhomes redefine living with their spacious floor plans and an array of amenities. Step inside to discover a haven of elegance, boasting 10-foot ceilings on the main living floor and large windows that flood the space with natural light. The gourmet kitchen seamlessly merges with the inviting family room, creating the perfect setting for both everyday living and entertaining. Revel in the exquisite finishes, featuring stunning cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and timeless stainless steel appliances. Experience true architectural brilliance with the inclusion of a charming Juliet balcony

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6614 E Juniper Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$598,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,428 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6719401

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing Scottsdale Location! Fully remodeled home on a large lot in a quiet neighborhood with a full spa, a cozy fireplace, & a wet bar. The kitchen features granite tile counters & stainless steel appliances. Enjoy Large master suite offering Large soaker tub and walk in shower. Soak in the AZ weather in your beautiful backyard with multiple covered patios, and a full size spa, beautiful desert landscaping with a pair of love birds nesting in the saguaro cactus, Also featured, a 2-car garage with epoxy flooring. Conveniently located off Bell Rd, equal distance to all the fun at Scottsdale Quarter, Kierland Commons, & Desert Ridge Marketplace with endless options for shopping, dining, & entertainment!

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1240 E Windsor Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85006

$598,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,739 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748705

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This charming ranch home sits in the Country Club Manor section of Coronado District!! 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathroom main house, PLUS 1 bed 1 bath guest quarters. Already separated with fencing for privacy. Large yard with new landscaping in the front. Some original features of this home have remained, such as coved ceilings, original doorknobs, and built in nooks. The classic floorpan includes custom built bookshelves and floor to ceiling windows in the main space of the home. The home has been well loved and is ready for the next owner to move in and make it their own

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2240 E Roma Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

$598,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,473 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759288

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Urban renovation is a big deal in this neighborhood... Everything from new builds over 1M, to original-owner homes ready to undergo total makeovers, there is a pride of ownership and a cool urban vibe going on. This home has been updated a lot over the past few months... New roof, new paint, new pool & spa motors, new quartz countertops, & new synthetic grass yards.

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3100 W Frankfurt Drive Chandler, AZ 85226

$598,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,372 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744740

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The seller will contribute towards lowering the buyer's interest rate by covering some of the associated costs, providing a more affordable monthly payment! HOA PAID FOR 1 YEAR!! Your family will love this 5-bedroom 3 bath home with a gorgeous deck off the Primary bedroom. With NO NEIGHBORS BEHIND, you will truly enjoy the serenity here. ALL NEW ENERGY EFFICIENT WINDOWS, NEW WATER HEATER and the HVAC & AIR HANDLER is 3 YEARS NEW!! Lots of natural light to enjoy the chef's kitchen with granite counters and SS appliances and so much storage. 3 bedrooms Upstairs with beautiful wood floors. Downstairs has 2 bedrooms and a living room with a fireplace, so many spaces to enjoy. Step outside and entertain or relax in your private, tranquil backyard under the stars.

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