And another note regarding Saturday’s commentary came from Mike L. who wrote, “I have a comment on the “lack” of first time homebuyers that actually are buying homes. By my experience, it’s not for the lack of them trying. I have pre-qualified a multitude of First Time Homebuyers and they are writing offers on homes.
Typically they are using either FHA financing or Conventional financing with 5% to 10% down (some even with 20% down). However they are typically writing offers on lower priced “entry level” properties. These properties are also very attractive to investors, so we are frequently getting beat to the punch by investors using all cash or very large down payments. It’s hard to blame the seller. Why wouldn’t they take an “all cash, higher priced offer” over the lower down payment first time buyer? Some of my first time buyers have been trying for well over a year to have their offers accepted. Combine this with the lack of inventory here in Southern California and the problem is amplified even further.”
