Yogi Sharma, The Realtor You Trust

08/28/2026

Most and least affordable states for first-time homebuyers in 2026
Affordability is top of mind for so many first-time buyers, and with good reason—rising home prices and stagnant wages make it a real challenge for nonhomeowners to find a place they can call their own. According to recent data, states like Mississippi, West Virginia, Arkansas, Alabama, and North Dakota offer the most accessible options for those starting out, while Rhode Island, Utah, Hawaii, Colorado, and California are among the least affordable. Here in the Bay Area, I see firsthand how perseverance and the right guidance can make a difference, even in competitive markets. It's all about staying patient and informed as you weigh your options—every journey is unique, and having a trustworthy advisor by your side can help you navigate these tough decisions.
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/yogi-sharma-1/1900019-Most-and-least-affordable-states-for-first-time-homebuyers-i

08/28/2026

08/27/2026

United States: Affordability Improves in 2026
As we look toward 2026, it’s encouraging to see signs of improved home affordability. Home price growth is projected to be around 1% this year—slower than inflation and previous forecasts—which means that, in real terms, prices are becoming more manageable for buyers. The first half of 2026 has brought a sense of stability to the market. Sellers are adjusting their expectations, and buyers are gaining some much-needed leverage. Existing-home sales are still expected to rise modestly, and with mortgage rates holding in the low-6% range, monthly payments are set to fall by about 2% year over year. I’m seeing both buyers and sellers remain patient and persistent, with more realistic asking prices and a steadier pace of inventory growth keeping transactions on track. As someone who believes in perseverance and putting clients’ needs first, I know how important this environment is for making confident decisions. Heading into the second half of 2026, I expect momentum to pick up as more buyers and sellers—who may have been waiting—find the terms they need to move forward. If you have questions or want to explore your options, I’m here to help you navigate these changes with patience and expertise.

08/27/2026

Discover this property for $949,500—a great opportunity that truly stands out.

08/27/2026

Yogi is best advisor and awesome negotiator. He also helped us connect with lenders. Yogi is trustwo...
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08/27/2026

You're scrolling through listings on your phone and everything looks good until you see the price (or the estimated monthly payment). Then you close the app.

08/27/2026

A recent survey from Talker Research asked Americans to pick one word to describe how 2026 has felt so far. The winner? Stressful. And honestly, there’s been a lot going on.

08/26/2026

Discover this property for $429,000—a great opportunity that truly stands out.

08/26/2026

US Home Prices Rose in Q2
This past quarter, US home prices continued their upward trend in most markets, with increases seen in 184 out of 230 metros. The national median for single-family homes climbed to $434,900, marking a 1.5% rise year-over-year. Here’s a quick look at how different regions performed in Q2 2026: The Northeast led the way with a 3.8% jump to $547,200, while the Midwest wasn’t far behind, up 3.6% to $340,800. The South saw a 1% increase to $380,000, and the West—our region—saw a slight dip of 0.8%, settling at $637,900. It’s interesting to note that sales activity picked up in most regions, especially in the South, fueled by stronger job growth. Meanwhile, the Northeast saw slower hiring but faster price appreciation.

For families, the typical monthly mortgage payment reached $2,199 in Q2, up $219 from the previous quarter, though still $52 less than a year ago. That means about 23.8% of income is now going toward mortgage payments, compared to 21.8% last quarter. Notably, starter-home prices declined over the year even as payments increased by $214 quarterly.

As someone who serves buyers and sellers in the San Francisco Bay Area, I understand the importance of staying current on these trends and what they mean for your next move. Whether you’re looking for a starter home, a new investment, or guidance on navigating today’s market shifts, I’m here to help you make informed decisions every step of the way.