What is the affordability index and its relation to Real Estate prices

The affordability index in real estate is a measure that indicates the ability of potential homebuyers to afford a home, typically expressed as a percentage. It is commonly used in the real estate industry to assess the affordability of homes for sale in a particular market or geographic area.

The affordability index is calculated by comparing the median household income to the median home price. The most commonly used formula is:

Affordability Index = (Median Household Income) / (Median Home Price) x 100

A higher affordability index indicates that homes are more affordable, as a larger percentage of the median household income can cover the cost of a median-priced home. Conversely, a lower affordability index indicates that homes are less affordable, as a smaller percentage of the median household income is sufficient to purchase a median-priced home.

An affordability index is a useful tool for homebuyers, real estate agents, and policymakers to gauge the affordability of homes in a given area and to make informed decisions about buying or selling properties, setting housing policies, and understanding market trends.