A few weeks ago, Realtor.com released its first-ever Metro Affordability & Homebuilding Report Cards, grading the 100 largest U.S. metros on affordability and new construction. Des Moines took the top spot — an A+ with a score of 83.4 out of 100, ahead of Raleigh and Columbia, SC.
The ranking rewards two things: local incomes that stretch further, and builders adding enough new homes to give buyers real choices. Des Moines posted a median listing price of $349,903, with the typical mortgage payment taking up just 27.5% of median household income — comfortably below the 30% line where housing starts to strain a budget.
If you've been waiting on the sidelines, the national numbers just backed up what we're seeing here at home: more inventory, steady prices, and payments that fit real paychecks.
Thinking about making a move in the metro? Let's talk. — Mitch