Terry Clark - Realtor

Speaking as a responsible Realtor, I cannot imagine how the future of home ownership can be good for the great majority of New Hampshire families. Just look at these three indicators and tell me how home ownership is a viable option.

$535,000
MEDIAN NH HOME — RECORD HIGH
Up 122% over the past decade. NHAR full year 2025.

$3,950+
MONTHLY MORTGAGE ON THAT HOME
5% down, 6.6% rate, avg. NH property tax. NHFPI 2025. Before insurance or fees.

15%
NH RESIDENTS WHO CAN COMFORTABLY AFFORD THE MEDIAN HOME
NH Housing analysis. Need $158K+ income. Only 15% of NH households earn that.

Two bedroom Apartment - Washington St. Keene
First floor. One bath, large, private yard, garden space.
Washer/dryer. Ample parking.
$1,800/mo., security deposit. Application and credit check required.
One year lease.https://nh.craigslist.org/apa/d/keene-modern-two-bedroom-apartment/7861804155.html

post.craigslist.org

I think something needs to be clarified in this discussion about the availability of housing. Although the housing stock is low, what is in the most demand is AFFORDABLE housing. The fact that almost no one seems to want to talk about is that people simply do not make enough money to afford the housing that is available. Building more housing at the same price point is not going to solve the problem unless wages are increased dramatically. Who was that crazy guy who ran for president 20 years ago who said, "Rents are to damned high?" Maybe we should have elected him.

Sentinel Opinion: Parking's place; Keene is mulling reducing parking requirements to boost housing stock It’s long been apparent there’s no magic pill for curing Keene’s housing shortage. Recognizing this, the city has taken a number of incremental steps intended to remove or lower barriers