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What Today’s Affordability Challenges Really Mean for Buyers


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A Practical Guide for Anyone Considering a Home Purchase in 2025–2026

By Nichole Ehrbar — Your Big Island Agent


Housing affordability has been the biggest headline in real estate for years, and the newest report from the National Association of REALTORS® confirms what many buyers already feel: homes are expensive, interest rates have stayed higher than expected, and many people—especially younger adults—are delaying (or giving up on) their homeownership plans.


But here’s the surprising truth most buyers don’t hear:


This challenging market actually gives serious buyers

more opportunity than they’ve had in years.


Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Why Housing Affordability Matters Right Now


According to NAR, 56% of real estate firms expect housing affordability issues to continue for the next two years. This means that fewer people will be actively shopping for homes—not because they don’t want to buy, but because they feel priced out.


For buyers who are ready, this shift creates a quieter, less competitive market.

How This Market Actually Helps Today’s Buyers


1. Lower Competition = More Breathing Room


A large portion of younger adults can’t buy yet, which means fewer offers on homes.

For you, that means:


  • less pressure

  • fewer bidding wars

  • time to think, evaluate, and negotiate


This is a big change from the frenzied market we saw just a few years ago.


2. Sellers Are More Flexible Than Before


With fewer qualified buyers out shopping, sellers are more willing to work with the buyers they do get.

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We’re seeing:

  • closing cost credits

  • interest rate buydowns

  • repair credits

  • price adjustments

  • flexible closing timelines


These opportunities help lower your upfront costs and monthly payment.


3. You Have More Choices


Inventory has been higher, and homes are staying on the market longer.

This gives buyers:


  • more selection

  • better quality homes

  • a stronger chance of finding the right property rather than settling


When competition is lower, you simply get more options.


4. The Market Is Stable—Not Crashing


Despite the challenges, most real estate firms expect profits to remain stable or rise in 2025. That signals a steady, not risky, market for buyers.

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This is important:

Buying in a stable market reduces long-term risk and protects equity growth.


5. More Trained Agents = Better Support


Over 70% of firms encourage agents to earn certifications and take extra training.

For buyers, this means:


  • better guidance

  • stronger negotiations

  • more knowledgeable representation


In a tight affordability market, expertise matters—and buyers benefit from improved agent skill.

What This Means If You’re Planning to Buy in 2025–2026


If you’ve been waiting for “the perfect moment,” this might actually be it.


Here’s why:


  • You have more negotiating power.

  • Sellers are more open to concessions.

  • Inventory is improving.

  • Competition is softer.

  • Prices are stabilizing—not skyrocketing.

  • You won’t be fighting five other buyers for the same home.


Affordability challenges are tough, but for buyers who are ready—and positioned well financially—this market is quietly working in your favor.


Thinking About Buying? Let’s Talk About Your Options.


Whether you’re six months out or ready now, I can walk you through:


  • customized budget planning

  • local inventory updates

  • interest rate strategies

  • creative ways to lower monthly payments

  • neighborhoods that offer the best value


The more you understand the market, the more empowered your buying journey becomes.


Aloha,

Nichole Ehrbar

Your Big Island Agent

Realtor® | RS-84140

ZT Hawaii LLC | 808-238-8336

 
 
 

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