Is Now the Time to Buy Your First House?

It's been a scary few years for the housing market. But at some point, the nightmare has to end (please?). Is now the time? Should first-time home buyers consider jumping into the market?

After all, home prices have fallen 34% from their 2006 peak and mortgage rates are hovering at or near record lows.

On one side are those who argue that homes are more affordable than they have been in decades, based on how much monthly income a mortgage consumes and whether owning is less costly than renting.

An uptick in home buying by investors already is under way, they say—an indication that those who wait may miss out on a good buying opportunity.

On the other side, Read the full article here