realestate

Affordable Homes: Top States to Consider for First-Time Buyers

Top 5 states see sale prices below national median of $428,000.

T
he pursuit of affordable housing has led some homebuyers to seek out states with more budget-friendly properties. According to a recent analysis by Redfin, Iowa stands out as the most affordable state, boasting a median sale price of $227,500 in March.

    Four other states - Ohio, Oklahoma, West Virginia, and Michigan - round out the top five for home affordability, all located in the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and South-Central regions. These states offer significantly lower prices than the national median of $428,000, as reported by Redfin.

    Ohio takes the second spot with a median sale price of $231,400, while Oklahoma ranks third at $236,700. West Virginia comes in fourth with a median sale price of $243,100, and Michigan rounds out the top five at $248,000.

    The affordability crisis has been a pressing concern for many Americans, with 81% citing down payments and closing costs as significant obstacles to homeownership, according to a Bankrate survey. Meanwhile, California takes the opposite end of the spectrum, ranking 50th with a median sale price of $785,200.

    Despite these challenges, the American Dream remains within reach for many, with 75% of U.S. adults considering homeownership an essential part of their aspirations, as reported by Realtor.com.

Affordable homes in top US states for first-time homebuyers, with scenic landscapes.