The U.S. Federal Reserve chairwoman described the central bank’s positions in a speech Thursday.

Source: Janet Yellen Expects Interest Rate Hike in 2015

It’s not that the sky’s falling, but that it’s important to illustrate the affect rising interest rates has on home affordability so buyers who are on the fence know the answer to that million dollar question, what is the “perfect time” to buy.

It appears we are in the best of all worlds – the economy has improved, home prices are rising and interest rates are at historic lows. So, why not now? To answer that, let’s look at the effect a 1% change in interest rates will have on purchasing power.

According to the Pikes Peak Association of Realtors, the Average Home Price in the Colorado Springs market as of end of month August 2015 was $273,381. With the Average 30 yr Mortgage in the Colorado Springs market currently at 3.91%, amortized over 30 years a monthly payment on this average home is $1,291 per month, not including taxes and insurance. Whereas, a payment for the same house at 4.91% is $1,453, a monthly increase of $162 or $58,165 in added payments over the life of the fully amortized loan. And if affordability is an issue, consider this increase means less house for the money, as the max purchase price becomes $242,973 in this scenario.

Buying a home is no small decision with many factors to consider. However, those who are ready, willing and able to buy might want to consider pulling the trigger sooner than later as, be it in 2015 or later, interest rates will rise. To illustrate its inevitability, this old goat was originating mortgages with interest rates in the mid to high teens back in the 90’s. Yes, before smart phones.

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