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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43576 W Snow Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$465,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,183 SqFt

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MLS # 6694059

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368 W Golden Aspen Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$465,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,165 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6694410

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully upgraded David Weekly Home where Pottery Barn meets Chip and Joanna! This meticulously maintained home is move in ready. The beautiful exterior elevation welcomes you into the open light & bright great Room split floor plan with 10 ft. ceilings, custom paint, shiplap accent wall, recessed can lighting, 4 true bedrooms w/ 3 full baths, bedroom 4 with private ensuite creating privacy for family or guests. Awesome floorplan! Upgraded gourmet kitchen has large breakfast bar Island, granite counters, SS appliances, gas Cooktop, 42 inch upper cabinets w/ under cab lighting, tile backsplash, apron sink, walk in pantry, eat in kitchen/dining room and the oversized family room! The king sized primary bedroom features ensuite w/ large walk in shower, raised vanities, private toilet, & walk in closet. You will love the customized laundry room with pipe shelving with custom wood folding table. The backyard is fully landscaped with travertine tile, custom bar with electrical, lighted gazebo with electrical, putting green & artificial grass. Low maintenance a wonderful space to relax and entertain. 2 car garage with storage racks, garage opener. Fiber Optic wiring thru out home, water softener owned, Highest Energy efficient homes in The Parks with 2x6 construction, R30 cellulose blown insulation exterior walls Attic Batts and blown cellulose. Leased Solar panels installed 2021 saves on monthly electric bills with low monthly payment. Close to shopping, Olive mill, Schnepf farms, hospitals, restaurants and area is growing.

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19514 N 84th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85382

$465,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,448 SqFt

Status Active

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Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This UPDDATED, end-unit Casita is a stunning ST THOMAS floorplan packed with desirable features. Both bathrooms remodeled - raised vanities, Granite counters, updated showers. Plank tile flooring throughout, complemented by custom floating shelves and built-ins in the great room with slate accents. Recessed lighting adds ambiance, and check out the unique, custom bookshelf with hidden storage! The primary bathroom has been reconfigured to enlarge the shower. Kitchen enhancements include Stainless Steel appliances, Quartz counters & windowsills, gray cabinets and under-cabinet lighting. Utility area with built-ins and Quartz counters provide a nice workspace. Windows and sliders have been replaced with Vinyl. Guest room is enhanced by a stunning slate wall and built-in custom cabinetry. You'll love the versatility offered by mechanical interior shades in the Great Room, mechanical shades for all 3 sides of the patio, and roller shades for the rear of the home. Covered area is expanded by the addition of a pergola with adjustable slats. With a new air conditioner in 2020 and a roof covered by the HOA, this home offers peace of mind and efficiency. Additional upgrades such as a new garage door and opener further enhance its appeal. Plus, the option to purchase most furniture outside of escrow provides an opportunity for seamless move-in and personalized touches. Come and enjoy the Active Adult lifestyle of Westbrook Village!

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18816 N 94th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85382

$465,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,649 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6695103

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Patio Home now available in Fairway Ridge! This Pebblebeach floorplan offers many recent updates/upgrades, including newer windows in 2019. Granite counters in kitchen and baths. Upgraded wood flooring, newer carpeting, fresh paint in bedrooms. Upgraded cabinets. Private pavered backyard patio is a perfect extension for outdoor living. This unit boasts a new roof! The community pool/spa are steps away. Westbrook Village is truly a resort experience that is so convienently located to shopping/dinning options. 2 community centers, pickle ball, fitness and pools. Enjoy a resort lock and leave lifestyle!

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2211 E Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85016

$465,000

1 Bed

1 Bath

553 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6695705

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

This beautifully appointed unit in the 5-Star Residences at 2211 boasts a private bedroom with room for a king-sized bed, a thoughtfully designed kitchen and a bright, open floor plan. Featuring Bosch appliances, wood flooring throughout, ample storage, and indoor/outdoor living with an oversized patio. Building amenities include: rooftop heated swimming pool, jaccuzzi, BBQ area, Club Room with full catering kitchen, state-of-the-art gym, business office, 24-hour concierge.

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$465,000

3 Beds

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1,454 SqFt

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Your search is over! You found the perfect waterfront property in Tempe. Located in Runaway Point, in the highly sought after Lakes community, this end unit condo offers unobstructed lake views from your private balcony. This low maintenance home offers a new HVAC system, new washer and dryer and water heater installed in 2021. Light and bright with an open floor plan, this unit will surely please. Runaway Point has a private community pool and The Lakes has additional amenities within a short five minute walk. Enjoy a lap pool, workout facility, sand volleyball, pickleball, tennis, sport court, community rooms and much more, including several restaurants within walking distance. Don't wait to see this wonderful property!

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5190 N Dime Drive -- Strawberry, AZ 85544

$465,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,320 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700759

Property Type Single Family Residence

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The log cabin you have been waiting for in the heart of Strawberry, AZ! Tucked away in the pine trees on a cul-de-sac, this 2-story cabin with a spacious loft is the perfect getaway. The vaulted tongue & groove ceilings, wood walls, hardwood floors and a cozy woodstove give a warm and rustic vibe while the large windows and skylights bring in plenty of natural light. The kitchen features brand-new appliances, breakfast bar & separate dining area. The cabin was constructed with 8'' spruce logs with an expansive deck for entertaining and an attached wood or storage shed. A covered breezeway provides addt'l parking for recreational vehicles. This log cabin isn't just a home; it's an opportunity to embrace the mountain lifestyle and start creating memories that will last a lifetime!

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782 S Beck Avenue Tempe, AZ 85281

$465,000

3 Beds

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Property Type Townhouse

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Graced with a prime location in the heart of Tempe, this 3-bed, 3-bath home boasts a vibrant and spacious living space, perfect for a growing family or young professionals. With its modern design and open floor plan, this townhouse is ideal for hosting gatherings and entertaining guests. The convenient location provides easy access to nearby parks, shopping and dining. The property is also just a short distance from ASU, making it an ideal home for students and faculty. Enjoy the Arizona sunshine from the comfort of your private patio or balcony, perfect for outdoor relaxation. Don't miss the opportunity to make this stunning townhouse your new home sweet home. Check it out for yourself and experience the best of Tempe living!

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14141 N 133rd Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$465,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,038 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6699095

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This modern home in Surprise is now available! Vaulted ceilings give this home a wonderful spacious air while not compromising on a cozy feeling thanks to carpet and wood tile throughout. The kitchen is home to a beautiful island and a full suite of stainless steel appliances lit by updated modern light fixtures. The primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet and vaulted ceilings, while the bathroom enjoys dual sinks and private water closet. Outside a covered patio overlooks newer pavers, green spaces with smart irrigation system, and a pool with new cover. Updated AC unit (2020), solar panels, EV charger and smart Trane thermostat add to the modern touches! This home has a 2-car garage, access to nearby parks and green spaces, and is close to the Loop 303 and new shopping developments!

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1106 N 29th Street Phoenix, AZ 85008

$465,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,560 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700725

Property Type Single Family Residence

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12245 Bliss Avenue Bellemont, AZ 86015

$465,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,600 SqFt

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MLS # 6701142

Property Type Townhouse

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This beautiful 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom townhouse is upgraded with granite countertops, Samsung stainless steel appliances, shaker cabinets with soft close drawers, and luxury vinyl flooring throughout! Excellent Flagstaff value with park views! Enjoy the low maintenance fenced/gated front yard, and an oversized garage providing extra storage. The home is energy efficient and features spray foam insulation. The community offers a children's playground, picnic gazebos, a pickleball court, a large grassy park area for activities and a separate fun dog park area. Tenant in place, lease ends 11/30/2024. Currently getting $2550/month！！！6% CAP RATE! Showings need 48 hours notice in advance.

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12064 W Morning Dove Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

$465,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,041 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6701502

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

*Not Age Restricted* Welcome to this beautiful home in the peaceful Rio Sierra! Nestled on a corner lot, it offers 4 beds, 2 baths, 2-car garage, & a lovely landscape. Fabulous interior showcases vaulted ceilings, neutral paint, tons of natural light, and wood-look flooring in all the right places. If entertaining is on your mind, you'll love the living & dining room combo and a family room that opens up to the kitchen! SS appliances, New Cabinets & Quartz counters, a Pantry, recessed lighting, ample cabinetry, Island w/breakfast bar, and a Dry bar w/Wine Rack & Beverage Fridge make up the kitchen. Main bedroom has an Ensuite with dual sinks, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Enjoy the tranquil backyard boasting a covered patio, mature trees, artificial turf, & well-laid pavers! This home is in the Peoria School District. Here's your opportunity to own a beautiful home & enjoy all the amenities Rio Sierra at Cross River community has to offer; such as playgrounds, basketball court, tennis courts, ramadas, soccer fields, picnic tables, barbeques, sand volleyball and large open areas. Close proximity to 303 freeway access, 20 minutes to shopping, dining, entertainment, health care, and beautiful Lake Pleasant Regional Park.

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