Real estate

Los Angeles County and Inland Empire home prices grew at the fastest pace in three years in March, yet another sign that the local housing market is maintaining its punch for a seventh consecutive year.

The next Baltimore County executive will be responsible for fulfilling a promise made by the current one: Enticing developers to build 1,000 homes for low-income families.

The median sale prices for single-family homes and condominiums in Connecticut rose significantly in March, even as the number of sales in both categories decreased.

Canada's big banks don't seem keen to follow Toronto-Dominion Bank's lead on mortgage hikes – at least not all the way.

Canada's mortgage growth has fallen to the lowest in nearly two decades as interest rates rise and after new mortgage rules took effect at the start of the year.

March's residential construction spending declined by 3.5% on a seasonally adjusted basis from February, but was virtually flat for new single-family properties, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Tight housing inventory continues to be an enemy to homebuyers as supply constraints keep putting upward pressure on home prices, which are now above where they were 12 years ago.

When it comes to purchasing a home, buyers have to put a lot of research and thought into any decision they make. From finding the best fit with a real estate agent, to how much work they are willing to do on move-in day, setting a budget and of course, picking the house itself.

Here's a look at 12 cities where median home prices are under $200,000 and the combination of local wages and interest rates offer buyers the most purchasing power.

There is a minimal risk of another housing bubble developing in Southern California, even as there is just a slim chance area home prices will fall in the next two years.