The Housing Pulse survey from the National Association of Realtors found that roughly 80 percent of consumers say that unemployment and job layoffs in their area are a "barrier to homeownership." However, despite these concerns, 68 percent of respondents felt that now is a good time to buy a home.
"While a job recovery is what's needed right now to get the economy and housing market back on the right track, owning a home continues to be part of the American Dream and one of the best long-term investments in your future," said NAR president Vicki Cox Golder.
Survey respondents also cited concerns about a down payment and getting a mortgage. Seventy-nine percent of people said that they felt that getting the money to cover a down payment and closing costs was a major obstacle, while 73 percent had a lack of confidence in their ability to qualify for a loan.
For those who do choose to pack up their moving boxes now, they are able to take advantage of favorable conditions. A recent study by Beacon Economics said that homebuying in August was at its most affordable point since 1969.
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