A recent report from RealtyTrac and Down Payment Resource looked at affordability, median income, median home price and down payment assistance programs in 370 U.S. Counties with a population of at least 100,000. The analysis ranked each county based on its affordability and accessibility for low down payment buyers, such as first-time home buyers. The findings show 90 percent of the included counties were more affordable in April 2015 than their historic averages. Daren Blomquist, vice president at RealtyTrac, said there are opportunities for buyers in most local housing markets across the country. “This analysis demonstrates that low down payment borrowers can find affordable housing and good accessibility to down payment help in a wide variety of markets nationwide,” Blomquist said. “However, within many major metro areas the most affordable and accessible markets for low down payment buyers are often those furthest from jobs and other amenities that many buyers want.” Still, though housing affordability has been affected by recent price increases and rising mortgage rates, it remains a good time to buy a home due to the availability of lower down payment requirements and the fact that rates remain well below historic norms. More here.