Abstract
The goal of this research is to help prospective homeowners have a better understanding of the complexities of the housing market. This research paper will focus on three main components, which are interest rates, location, and housing costs, as well as the smaller factors that have influence into those three categories. If this research accomplishes anything, it would be to give readers the information necessary to simplify the decision-making process and better ensure the investment is of the highest quality and has the lowest risk as possible. Later on, we will analyze data to prove the correlation between interest rates and housing affordability and the importance of adequately reading market conditions to invest at the right time. Location is the biggest factor of them all, and there is limitless information to prove how investing in certain areas can greatly increase your return for a short or long term investment. Lastly, financial planning is essential. Understanding housing costs outside of the face value of a home is essential to making a sound investment. By looking at historical trends and data from the housing market, case studies, and practical considerations from experts in the field, this research should answer many of the questions that someone new to the housing market may have and more. The ultimate goal is to provide a simplified place to look for answers to simple and complex questions to which every prospective homeowner should find the answer before making an investment decision in the housing market.
Year Manuscript Completed
Spring 2024
Senior Project Advisor
Scott Douglas
Degree Awarded
Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree
Field of Study
Applied Sciences
Document Type
Thesis - Murray State Access only
Recommended Citation
Elsing, Alex, "Being Smart in Your Homeownership: Navigating the Intersection of Interest Rates, Location, and Housing Costs" (2024). Integrated Studies. 570.
https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/bis437/570