For buyers, the market is tough, and the low number of first-time buyers illustrates just how tough it is. In a separate study conducted by NAR, first-time homebuyers in 2015 made up the lowest share of the market in nearly three decades.
Many factors are keeping first-time home buyers sidelined. Despite a strengthening economy and job growth, wages have remained relatively stagnant. At the same time, rent prices have skyrocketed and continue to rise. Combined, these factors are preventing millennials from saving enough for a significant down payment.
At the same time, home affordability continues to suffer. Home prices have risen quickly over the last three and half years, again outpacing wage and job growth. Prices are expected to rise more modestly this year, somewhere around 4 to 5 percent.
These factors combined with limited inventory are making it difficult for buyers to find the home they want at a price they can afford. However, if you’re thinking of buying, it is important to start looking sooner rather than later…
Jenalee Herb: Your Real Estate Consultant 
Wow! This is great info. for today’s real estate world. Is this info. the Rochester market, or does it apply nationally?
Hi Jill! Thanks for the question. This information does apply to both National and local real estate markets. Rochester, NY real estate seems to be somewhat insulated from the volatility that the rest of the nation sometimes experiences, however, there is a shortage of homes for sale in the Rochester area market right now which is part of what is keeping buyers from buying! Be sure to read next weeks blog post as it will have some good news for those waiting buyers!!