John G. Most

I think I would have characterized your articles' sub-head a little differently as there will ALWAYS be sticker shock. That has little to do with affordability. The study seems to focus a lot on the glass being 1/2 empty. The fact is: Interest rates continue at historic 30-to-40 year lows. Prices are the lowest they have been in years. --> When was the last time the buyer had BOTH of these factors working in their favor?<-- Now is the best time for qualified first-time buyers to enter. The days of 0% down are gone or should be...hasn't the industry learned enough from that lesson? It's too bad that owners are so unwilling to understand that to get you have to give. And that to get the new home they want (which will be at a decidedly lower price or should be in today's market), they may have to sell their own home for less than they emotionally would like to. The greed factor of wanting to keep every cent of equity they've "earned" from the last housing boom is part of what is stalling this market. Great article, Marcie. John G. Most President, CEO Certified Brand Strategist MOST 4001 MacArthur Blvd. Suite 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660