Realtors tell your buyers now is a good time to buy because it is true! Historically low interest rates and inexpensive house prices have created an environment that is more affordable than any time in recent history. If you are considering buying, buy now. If you are now considering buying, you should be.

The National Association of Homebuilders determine the median household income of major metropolitan areas. They then take the those numbers and compare them against the same area's median house costs.

They then determine the Home Opportunity Index. This index uses a few assumptions: 10% down, average interest rate, and the front end ratio doesn't exceed 28%

Looking at the current index, about 75% of U.S. citizens could afford a home. Any index number above 70% is outstanding.

This number is so high because of the low interest rates and low home prices. THIS COMBINATION WON'T LAST FOREVER.

It doesn't matter what the affordability index is in your market. It is better now than it will be in the future. YOU NEED TO SERVE YOUR CLIENTS BY SELLING THEM A HOUSE TODAY. They will thank you when house prices go up.

We can't forget what happened in the 2005-2010. Home prices dropped. Builders stopped building. The economy has added jobs, home prices are increasing, affordability is still here but for how long?

If you clients are considering buying a home in 2013 or 2014 please move up their timeframe. They will be telling everybody what a great realtor you are because you sold them a house and got them a low interest rate and the home price has gone up.

Joe LaVallie
The Integrity Team
Mortgage Banker
HomeStreet Bank
22001 66th Ave W
Mountlake Terrace WA 98043
NMLS ID#111363
joe.lavallie@homestreet.com
425-678-7604 Direct
1-800-761-7788 ext 7604
206-743-4722 Cell
Fax 206-512-1911
To Apply Online http://www.homestreet.com/jlavallie