Rate buydowns, negotiations, and nepo money: Here's how people are affording homes in today's market

Rate buydowns, negotiations, and nepo money: Here's how people are affording homes in today's market

In an aerial photo, single family homes are seen in a neighborhood on July 3, 2025 in Thousand Oaks, California.Kevin Carter/Getty ImagesWith high mortgage rates and home prices, buyers are struggling.Some are getting creative with rate buydowns and negotiations.Other buyers are seeking down payment assistance from their parents.With high mortgage rates and home prices outpacing wage growth, it's easy to find yourself wondering how anybody is bu…