Ultra-low mortgage rates are making homes more affordable. At the same time, the lending market is becoming more accommodating. Insurance premiums are being reduced on FHA loans. This means even cheaper financing will be available to a wider swath of potential home buyers.

Home-price appreciation is also moderating, and homes are appreciating at a more reasonable rate. Rent-price increases, on the other hand, are making it more expensive for people to rent. Data from Zillow show that rents have grown at twice the pace of income over the past 14 years. Zillow expects rents to outpace home-price appreciation over the next year.

This means homeownership will become even more appealing in 2015.

We've always believed most people prefer to own than rent. There is something about owning a home than can't be replicated by renting. Peace of mind is found in being able to paint the walls and drive a nail wherever you want without worrying about a security deposit. Pride of ownership really does have value.

But more than anything, ownership gets people off the price escalator. Rent never ceases to rise. When a home is bought and financed with a fixed-rate loan, what was paid last year will be paid this year, and years after that (property taxes and insurance aside).

When low lending rates are combined with the comparative advantages of ownership, there is no reason to not like the outlook for housing in 2015.

Information provided by Jessica Regan.

Search all Harrisburg PA homes for sale.

When you are buying or selling property in today's Harrisburg PA real estate market, it's important to have confidence in your real estate professional. Don’s commitment as your Harrisburg PA REALTOR® is to provide you with the specialized real estate service you deserve.

When you are an informed buyer or seller, you'll make the best decisions for the most important purchase or sale in your lifetime. That's why Don’s goal is to keep you informed on trends in Harrisburg PA real estate. With property values continuing to rise, real estate is a sound investment for now and for the future.

As a local area expert with knowledge of Harrisburg PA area communities, Don’s objective is to work diligently to assist you in meeting your real estate goals.

If you are considering buying or selling a home or would just like to have additional information about real estate in your area, please don't hesitate to call me at (717) 657-8700complete my online form, or e-mail me at don@donroth.com.