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.

What’s Your Home Worth?

Search for Your New Home

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

View As: Thumbnails List

Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

40930 W Agave Road Maricopa, AZ 85138

$465,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,142 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6641288

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

START PACKING... It's the Castellano.. This home has 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and 3 car garage. Large walk-in shower at owner's bath. Multi slide door that leads out to the covered patio perfect for entertaining. Gas range for the cook in the family. Benton painted white cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers and pull out trash drawer with two bins. DT One Quartz Evening Gray countertops in the kitchen and at the enhanced kitchen island. DT Marble Attache Matte kitchen backsplash and stainless steel undermount kitchen sink. 8' tall interior doors throughout the home. Upgrade flooring includes MZ Norwood Oak 6x24 tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms/closets. Gas drop to dryer, gas stub for BBQ, 8' garage door, garage service door and so much more.

View Property

12565 N 175th Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$465,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,836 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6688259

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful property nestled on a desired corner lot! This gem displays a well-maintained front yard and a 2-car garage for your vehicles. The delightful interior features a spacious open floor plan, highlighting tall ceilings, a soothing palette, tile flooring, and soft carpet in all the right places. The kitchen is fully equipped with ample counter space, a walk-in pantry, rich wood cabinetry, recessed lighting, and an island with a breakfast bar, great for morning conversations. Double doors reveal a generous main retreat, offering a private bathroom with dual sinks and a large walk-in closet. Out the back, you'll find a covered patio for relaxing evenings after a busy day. Conveniently situated near schools, shopping, and parks. Stop searching!

View Property

505 W Stanley Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$465,500

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,999 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6689220

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome Home!! This beautiful 3 bedroom, Plus Den, 2 bath, 2 car garage home is located in the desirable and established Ironwood Crossing neighborhood. Large kitchen with granite counter tops, beautiful crown molding on cabinets, custom tile back splash, and stainless steel appliances. Open and spacious floorplan with 8' doors throughout. Ceiling fans in all rooms. Water softener and RO water system. Enjoy relaxing under your extended covered patio with sunshades or under the stars next to your gas fire pit. Exterior was repainted in 2020. This is a must see! Owner has access to Mary Lou Fulton & Ira Fulton Aquatic center. Great community features include parks, basketball courts, pickleball courts and much much more. **Some Furniture is Available on a Separate Bill of Sale*

View Property

16755 W Buckhorn Trail Surprise, AZ 85387

$465,462

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,291 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6686984

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Can't find what you want on the resale market, look no further. This 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom Pastora plan is open, spacious and livable. The kitchen overlooks the great room and is loaded with upgrades. The kitchen includes 42'' upper cabinets with a gourmet layout, stainless steel appliances, quartz counter top and beautiful back splash. The flooring throughout is upgraded. The 12ft. sliding glass door allows more light into the great room and provides a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Our High Performance Homes come standard with home automation technology and a Reme Halo air purifier to promote a healthy lifestyle. EZ access to the 303 loop. Elementary school is close to community. Home is MOVE-IN READY

View Property

17708 W Eva Street Waddell, AZ 85355

Open House

$465,420

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,915 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6687003

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This GORGEOUS Single Story New Construction home has it all! 1,915 square feet, 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, w/ 2 car garage! ***Est COE in May*** Our Quick move-in homes will include appliances and backyard landscape with turf. This home features a modern, neutral color palette, offering 36'' white shaker cabinetry, a large kitchen island, upgraded white quartz countertops, and 9' ceilings throughout. It also includes a soft water loop. This home prioritizes efficiency, with features such as dual pane low-E windows, and a smart home system included. The exterior features front yard desert landscaping, a covered patio and private backyard. Conveniently located off the 303, this community is near Costco, Safeway, and shopping. **Finishes may vary from sample photos and virtual tour.

View Property

9812 E Windy Pass Trail Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$465,400

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,642 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6657193

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This popular split floor plan is located in a gated community on a quiet corner lot with mountain views and mature, low-maintenance landscaping in both the front and back yards. The interior features 3bd/2ba split floor plan, open family room with fireplace & skylights, formal dining room (or den), ceiling fans throughout and 9ft+ ceilings. Large primary suite includes great views of the back yard & pool and an en-suite with dual sinks, shower and walk-in closet. The eat-in kitchen features maple cabinets, granite countertops, pantry and breakfast bar. Tile & laminate flooring throughout. Enjoy the pebble tec play pool with waterfall and above-ground spa! The pool has a self cleaning in-ground system. Welcome home!

View Property

1850 E Bernie Lane Gilbert, AZ 85295

$465,205

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,812 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693338

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Beautiful, newly built condo now available in Towns at Annecy! This 2-story Spanish/Italian style property offers a lovely kitchen with Stainless Electric GE appliances including a refrigerator, Quartz countertops, and a Delta Faucet. Other highlights include Espresso Shaker style cabinets, Delta Bath Hardware, wood look flooring, two closets in the Primary Suite, and ample storage throughout. A stainless GE Washer and Dryer are also included! Soft Water Loop pre-plumbed only. Enjoy gated access and endless amenities including a pool, spa, playground, and more! Please note that the interior photos are not from this home, they are a reference from a finished model.

View Property

1850 E Bernie Lane Gilbert, AZ 85295

$465,205

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,812 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693434

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Lovely new Spanish/Italian style condo now available in the private and gated community of Towns at Annecy. Enjoy endless amenities throughout the community and designer selections throughout the 3 bed, 2.5 bath home. Stainless Electric GE appliances including a Refrigerator, Washer, and Dryer! The kitchen boasts Quartz countertops, a Delta Kitchen Faucet, and Nutmeg Shaker style cabinets throughout. The unit has ample storage including two closets in the Primary Suite. Other highlights include wood look flooring and carpet flooring, Delta bath hardware, and a Soft Water Loop pre-plumbed only. Attached 2-car tandem garage. Please note that the interior photos are not from this home, they are a reference from a finished model.

View Property

5258 E Calle De La Fressa -- Hereford, AZ 85615

$465,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,928 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6691769

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A must see to appreciate is the elegance and peaceful beauty of this new built 4-bedroom modern, country charmer! Boasting magnificent views of the northern/ eastern mountain range & the gorgeous Huachuca mountains, a hike away. The front porch & yard provide an idyllic ambiance for the beauty of this quiet country style neighborhood. Featuring a wonderful spacious open floor plan, to include 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a den, vaulted ceilings, larger windows, taler doors & an open concept - split bedroom plan, with an oversized 3 car garage. Just beautiful are the buttercream-colored cabinets accented with the darker granite counters. A lovely kitchen island & charming dinning create such a relaxing yet elegant dining experience. The wood tile flooring throughout makes for easy living and a great look. Stop in to see this gorgouse home and you too will fall in love!

View Property

25664 N 162nd Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$465,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,041 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6672937

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This gorgeous, highly upgraded floor plan is model home perfect. This 2041 Sq Ft. single level property has an open floorplan, 3 bdrms, 2 baths plus a den/flexspace! It was built in 2020 with lots of upgrades! Step inside to a home that is light, bright and a beautiful blend of luxury and comfort. This home is better than new, it boasts beautiful white shaker cabinets with a beautifully deigned backsplash, luxury wood-look flooring, Brand new Carpet throughout the house as well as stunning granite countertops which make for a sleek and sophisticated look! The impressive gourmet kitchen offers a gas cooktop and and an island breakfast bar. 8ft doors throughout the house. The owner's suite is spacious with a walk in shower. This home also comes with a backyard designed for easy maintenance.

View Property

15622 W Yucatan Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$465,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,407 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6672604

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Meticulously maintained and cared-for home on a quaint, tree-lined street in Greer Ranch. Located in the beautiful city of Surprise. This 4 bed 2 bath home has a large living room with a separate formal dining room. Upgraded with durable, wood laminate flooring throughout. Fully landscaped front and back with auto watering system. Spacious kitchen with SS appliances. Built-in bookshelves. Custom front security screen door. Huge primary suite. Ensuite with privacy door. Covered back patio with an extended concrete slab. Split 3-car garage. 3rd bay has lots of built-in storage cabinetry. Great for a workshop or man cave. Must see this beautiful home!

View Property

45240 W Windrose Drive Maricopa, AZ 85139

$465,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,432 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6674588

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The home features an open floor plan with a formal living and dining room, as well as a great room that overlooks the backyard. It includes a half bath downstairs for convenience and 5 bedrooms upstairs with 3 additional bathrooms. The kitchen has plenty of cabinet space with a desk area, walk-in pantry, granite countertops, and an under-mount sink. Large tile is in the traffic, kitchen, and wet areas, with neutral carpet in the rest of the home.

View Property