For people with good jobs and strong credit, today’s real estate market is an attractive one. However, some buyers, especially first-time buyers, are struggling to enter the market and don’t always and the home buying process easy.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the share of sales to first-time home buyers‑inched backward to 34 percent (35 percent in 2016), which is the fourth lowest share since 1981. In the 36-year history of NAR’s survey, the long-term average of first-time buyer transactions is 39 percent. Why is the number of first-time buyers so low? The Snohomish County- Camano Association of Realtors (SCCAR) says several factors are making it difficult for these buyers to purchase a home in today’s market. “Things like tight credit, limited inventory, higher home prices and higher mortgage interest rates are hindering first-time buyers,” said Glenda Krull, President of SCCAR. “Traditionally, first-time buyers are instrumental in housing recoveries because they help existing homeowners sell and make a trade up to a larger home. Therefore, it’s important to make sure first-time buyers who are willing and able to purchase a home have the opportunity to do so.”
Recently, housing inventory has trended down and is now tight in many areas of the country. There are also widespread shortages of homes in the lower price ranges in much of the country. Home prices have been increasing over the past few years and mortgage interest rates are expected to increase in the year ahead. In addition, Krull says today’s tight credit restrictions are preventing some qualified first-time buyers, who typically make smaller down payments, from becoming homeowners.
Student debt has also been cited as an obstacle to owning a home for first-time buyers. An NAR survey showed that of the first-time buyers who said it was difficult to save for a down payment, 54 percent said student loans made it tough to save money.
With all of these obstacles, it’s easy for first-time buyers to feel confused and hesitant about buying a home. However, here are a few tips SCCAR suggests first-time buyers take into account:
Review your finances. Before beginning the home search process, buyers should determine what they can afford. Carefully evaluate your income, savings and credit report. Also collect documentation of income and cash available to prepare for the mortgage application process. A lender can evaluate your finances to qualify and approve you for a loan amount. Krull reminds first-time buyers to not forget other costs such as taxes, insurance and utilities when calculating a budget.
Determine your wish list. Once preapproved for a loan, buyers should consider what they need and want in a home. Whether it’s a certain number of bedrooms, a large kitchen, or to be close to schools or public transportation, it’s good to have an idea of what you’re looking for in a home and community. Krull recommends realtor.com as a resource for buyers who want an accurate, up-to-date listings in their area. Visiting open houses is also another good way for buyers to get a sense of what is currently available in their market and what their budget can afford.
Work with a Realtor. Finally, SCCAR reminds first-time buyers all real estate is local, so it’s important to work with a Realtor who is familiar with your desired community. A Realtor can provide valuable counsel, discuss listings, show you homes in person, negotiate on your behalf, and help you stay focused on the emotional and financial issues that are most important.
For more information about buying or selling a home, be sure to work with a Realtor, a member of the National Association of Realtors.
Snohomish County-Camano Association of Realtors is the voice for real estate in Snohomish County. If you have questions for The Expert about Real Estate email us at info@sccar.org, or by visiting https://www.sccar.org. What Obstacles do first-Time Buyers Face on the Path to Homeownership?
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