Bob Driscoll | Source | Senior Vice President and Director of Residential Lending at Rockland Trust

Bob notes, “Persistently low inventory and high prices favor sellers, despite buyer demand.” He highlights the emotional toll on buyers, especially first-timers, and the impact of student loan debt. Bob advises brokers to support clients emotionally, as financial pressures mount. He emphasizes that buyers need more than favorable rates; they need hope for success in this challenging market.

Bob highlights the tough conditions for first-time buyers, citing "high interest rates, home prices, and limited inventory." Emotional tolls and repeated setbacks are causing many to pause their plans. Family assistance is common but not a complete solution. Bob predicts a market shift by 2026, offering hope for future buyers.

Bob highlights that "home prices have skyrocketed due to persistently low inventory," creating a seller's market. First-time buyers face saving challenges for bidding wars. High rents and student debt further erode savings, leaving many feeling demoralized and locked out of homeownership, a stark contrast to previous generations.