Homebuyers are increasingly focused on specific pockets of the Midwest and Northeast in a housing market characterized by high prices and rising mortgage rates.
The areas offer a balance of affordability and desirability, according to a recent study by Realtor.com.
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For the second consecutive year, Gahanna, Ohio, a suburb of Columbus, claimed the top spot as the most in-demand ZIP code in the U.S. The study, which analyzed 29,000 ZIP codes nationwide, based its rankings on the frequency of listing views and the speed at which homes sold.
According to the report, Gahanna’s appeal lies in its combination of spacious homes, relatively affordable prices, and proximity to a major city. With a median listing price of $345,000, compared to the national median of $439,950, Gahanna offers value for buyers seeking more space without breaking the bank.
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The study found a clear geographic trend, with all top 10 ZIP codes in the Midwest or Northeast. The shift reflects a cooling housing market in the South, partly due to increased inventory in that region.
Daniel Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com, said, “All of the top 10 ZIP codes offer affordability in the form of a lower median list price or median listing price per square foot compared to the U.S. housing market, relative to their surrounding metropolitan area, or both in June."
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She continued, "Though buyers have more options across the country, this year's Hottest ZIP Codes show that demand remains concentrated in markets that offer more bang for your buck.”
The list includes several commuter-friendly neighborhoods near major cities like New York and Boston. While some areas feature home prices above the national median, they offer relative affordability compared to properties closer to urban centers.
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For example, the median listing price of $995,000 in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, might seem steep. However, it represents a discount compared to nearby New York City, with homes offering about 33% more space per dollar than the surrounding metro area.
The study also highlighted the intense competition in the markets. Homes in the top 10 ZIP codes typically sold within 21 days, less than half the national median of 50 days. That rapid turnover drives up prices, with the hottest markets seeing an average 7.4% increase in median listing prices, compared to just 0.4% nationally.
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The report said buyers in those areas tend to be older and more financially secure than the national average. The typical successful buyer in those markets had a credit score of 757 and made a down payment of 16.7%, higher than national averages.
The complete list of the top 10 hottest ZIP codes, as ranked by Realtor.com:
- 43230 – Gahanna, OH
- 63021 – Ballwin, MO
- 01970 – Salem, MA
- 07920 – Basking Ridge, NJ
- 14609 – Rochester, NY
- 08054 – Mount Laurel, NJ
- 01453 – Leominster, MA
- 01085 – Westfield, MA
- 46322 – Highland, IN
- 18062 – Macungie, PA
As the housing market continues its rout, potential homebuyers who are seeking value might want to consider the above areas, which offer opportunity in a challenging market.
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© 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
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