The percentage of first-time buyers able to afford a median-priced home in California stood at 24% in the third quarter, down from 28% a year earlier, according to the California Association of Realtors.CAR’s First-time Buyer Housing Affordability Index also indicates that the minimum household income needed by first-time buyers to purchase a home at $478,010 stood at $98,890 in the third quarter, based on an adjustable interest rate of 6.58% and assuming a 10% downpayment. First-time buyers typically purchase a home equal to 85% of the prevailing median price, CAR said. The monthly payment, including taxes and insurance, totaled $3,300 in the third quarter. At 39%, the High Desert region was the most affordable region in the state, followed by the Sacramento region, at 38%. Santa Barbara was the least affordable region, at 14%, followed by Monterey, at 17%. CAR can be found on the Web at http://www.car.org.
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A federal judge in Texas dismissed the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's medical debt rule and prohibited states from passing their own laws prohibiting medical debt on credit reports.
9h ago -
Dr. Mark Calabria takes on the additional role of chief statistician of the United States; retired Ally Bank executive Diane Morais has joined First Citizens Bancshares' board of directors; MainStreet Bank has promoted Alex Vari to chief financial officer; and more in this week's banking news roundup.
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While refinances are behind the latest increases, the pace of purchase activity may be a stronger indicator of where the housing market sits.
July 11 -
The share of economists expecting a September rate reduction grew in the July Wolters Kluwer survey, but the October or later percentage also increased.
July 11 -
Rising home prices and softening sales offer a mixed view of a market that some say is shifting to favor buyers.
July 11 -
The notes are backed by home improvement installment loans originated by approved dealers in Foundation Finance Company's network.
July 11