Setting aside what it takes to get there, I think most people would like to own their home.

For many people, owning means knowing the rent won’t go up, a landlord won’t suddenly decide to move back in, etc. It’s a place where you can build stability and eventually a legacy.

But over the last several years, that dream has become harder to reach than at almost any point in recent memory.

Home prices rose dramatically, and elevated mortgage rates made the monthly payment even harder. During the low-rate years, it was much easier to buy with a small down payment and end up somewhere close to what that same property would cost to rent.

Today, it can take a six-figure down payment just to make the monthly numbers comparable.

I’ve been a real estate agent for over eight years, I’ve been investing since I was 20, and I’ve tried to do the right things financially. Even I still feel discouraged sometimes.

I’m expecting my first child next month, and I’d love to buy my new family an entry-level home around $500,000.

Traditionally, a 3% to 5% down payment would be a great starting point. That would be around $15,000 to $25,000, which is totally doable for many people who have been saving.

That down payment is still possible today. The problem is the monthly payment that comes with it. To get the payment closer to what that same property might rent for, you could be looking at putting down $100,000 or more.

So what can someone in my position, or the position of many younger people, actually do?

We need to continue renting and saving until we can put down a larger amount. Others may need to adjust the type of property or location they are considering. Hopefully, we eventually see some relief in mortgage rates or affordability improves in another way.

Interest rates are only one factor, although in my opinion they are the biggest one affecting the monthly payment. Property taxes, insurance, maintenance and the cost of materials have all increased too.

Buying can still make sense if the payment is comfortable, you plan to stay for a while and it fits your life. But forcing yourself into an uncomfortable financial situation because you feel like you are falling behind is not a good plan.

It’s my job to sell houses, but I’m being real with you. The last thing I want is for you to get stuck in a situation I wouldn’t put myself in. Buying a home should make your life more stable, not less.

Keep your head up, try to remain optimistic and continue saving and investing where you can. If you have any real estate questions along the way, let me know.