When interest rates, taxes, insurance, utilities rise in price, then the overall affordability of a new home is REDUCED.  From 1989 to 1999 they tracked tightly together.  More recently trying to get lenders to require less down payment  but then monthly payment go UP.  Lenders only want principal, interest, taxes, insurance & utilities to be NO more than 35% of the monthly income.  More down payment then buyers can afford a pricier house.  MORE TO COME