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Consider the standard unsung driveway at most U.S. homes. Could it pave the way to something better? While the primary function of driveways is usually parking, they can also offer recreation space for children and pets, increase property values, and enhance curb appeal.

Both building and maintaining a driveway are costs of owning a home that could benefit from financial planning and weighing options for materials, location, and design. Here’s a breakdown of key driveway ideas to help make your home improvement dream a reality.

1. Choosing a New Surface

Figuring out what material to use is a logical starting point when approaching new driveway ideas.

The chosen surface will affect the project’s cost in terms of the material itself, labor to install it, and how it will be maintained for years to come. The local climate is another factor to consider, as it plays into the durability and drainage of certain surface materials.

Let’s take a closer look at the pros, cons, and considerations for some popular driveway surfaces, including what to budget for.

Asphalt

Asphalt is a leading material used for roads and driveways alike for several reasons. The smooth finish to asphalt can present a polished look that is also easy to clean. At the same time, it offers good traction for vehicles, which is a big plus for sloped driveways in particular.

Asphalt comes with some downsides, too. The leading concerns stem from frequency and cost of long-term maintenance, as resurfacing is recommended every two years. Runoff is another potential issue, but adding drainage and landscaping to capture water can help remedy the environmental impact.

The local climate can play a role in picking a material, too. Generally, asphalt is better than other surfaces in colder climates. Specifically, it is advantageous for snow plowing and handling freezing temperatures and ice. Think of it as a way of winterizing your property.

On average, asphalt costs from $7 to $13 per square foot, and much of the price can be attributed to the labor and heavy machinery required.

Concrete

Given its prevalent use in public sidewalks, it may come as no surprise that concrete is also a popular material for driveways.

On the positive side, concrete driveways can be installed quickly, offer good traction, and may last for several decades with proper maintenance, such as annual resealing to prevent cracks. Concrete is also well suited for warmer climates because it doesn’t hold heat as long as asphalt.

Conversely, concrete is not the cheapest material and can be prone to runoff, which is a concern for homeowners in regions with heavy precipitation.

Concrete driveways may range from $4 to $15 per square foot, with an average cost of $6 per square foot, according to HomeAdvisor. Factors that may increase costs include removing an existing driveway or adding reinforcement, which may be necessary if heavy vehicles like RVs are present.

Concrete requires less machinery and is safer to work with than asphalt, so construction-savvy homeowners with smaller driveways may opt to install the component concrete slabs themselves to see further savings.

If concrete doesn’t sound like the ideal aesthetic, there are options to customize a driveway to your liking. Spruce-ups include using stained or tinted concrete, adding a decorative stone border, and integrating a patchwork of unpaved greenery, which can also help with drainage.

Recommended: Home Renovation and Remodeling Cost Calculator

Gravel

Gravel may vary in composition and rock type, but generally speaking, it can be thought of as a mixture of loose stone. It is a common material used in pathways and playgrounds but can be applied to driveways as well.

Of all the surface options, gravel is typically the cheapest and most DIY-friendly. The cost varies by the need to clear land and type of stone, but the expected price is roughly $1 to $2 per square foot without serious excavation.

Though gravel driveways can require some topping up and reconfiguration as stones move around, it is incredibly durable and does not need costly maintenance.

Gravel may be well suited for a rustic aesthetic in rural areas, but it may be less appropriate or feasible in more urban areas and housing developments. Furthermore, gravel may not lend itself to shoveling and plowing snow from the driveway without clearing away stone.

To determine the total gravel needed, a general rule of thumb is to have at least 4 inches of coverage, though more may be necessary for extra drainage.

Stone and Brick

Stone and brick have been used for roads and as building materials for centuries.

Using stone and brick for a driveway can create a historic and refined appearance and raise the property value. Also, the ability to integrate patterns, design elements, and colors into the stone or brickwork can complement the design of a home more than other materials might.

Beyond the visual appeal, the materials can endure for decades, and maintenance can be done one stone or brick at a time instead of resealing or paving the entire surface.

The primary drawback of stone or brick driveways is cost of materials and installation. Depending on the quality of stone or brick, expect to pay between $10 and $30 per square foot. Higher-end stones can fetch a significantly heftier price tag.

Permeable Pavement

Recent advances in engineering have made permeable paved surfaces an affordable reality for parking lots, roadways, and driveways.

Permeable pavement can come in several forms, including porous asphalt and pervious concrete. The pores drain water to the stone bed below, helping the water filtrate toxins naturally instead of running off to pollute waterways via storm drains.

The majority of benefits of asphalt and concrete apply, but permeable pavement can be slightly more expensive to install and needs to be vacuumed with professional-grade equipment every one or two years to remove debris and sediment from the pores. Often, permeable-pavement companies offer vacuuming and inspection services after installation.

In addition to the environmental benefits, homeowners may be eligible for tax rebates and other financial incentives from their local government for pursuing the greener option.

For instance, Palo Alto, California, has a rebate of $1.50 per square foot of permeable pavement installed.

Recommended: 7 Important Factors That Affect Property Value

2. Landscaping

Whether updating a driveway or building a new one, driveway ideas extend beyond the surface itself. Landscaping can be tied in with the project to beautify the space and reduce runoff.

Depending on how ambitious the project is, you may be able to handle part or all of the landscaping yourself. While this is an opportunity to have fun and be creative, maintenance is another important consideration.

For example, choosing perennial plants that regenerate each year and shrubs that will not quickly outgrow the space could add color and greenery without putting hedge trimming and spring planting on your to-do list.

Planting perennial species that develop deep root systems, such as black-eyed Susan and bee balm, can increase the garden’s ability to hold water and prevent flooding. This could also mitigate one of the most common home repair costs — foundation repair. In some cases, those repairs could cost up to $40,000.

3. Adding Lighting

Changing up the lighting in and around the driveway area can create a more stylized setting, as well as enhance safety and functionality for entering and leaving the home.

When choosing the type of lighting, you may want to consider the upfront cost of the unit and operational expenses of electricity and replacement. LED lights are a sustainable and cost-effective driveway idea for the long run, thanks to greater efficiency and a longer lifespan than incandescent and CFL bulbs.

Installing a combination of accent and overhead lighting allows the option to adjust the setting with the flip of a switch. Syncing the lighting with either motion sensors or timers can lower the electric bill and reduce light pollution to keep the neighbors happy.

4. Building a Gate

Topping off a driveway improvement with a gate is another way to highlight a home’s curb appeal and improve safety.

Gates may provide peace of mind by giving control of who enters the home. They can also help ensure that children and pets have a safe area to play in without worry of them venturing into the street.

Convenience and safety can also be added by prominently featuring the house number on the gate or pillar structure, which may help visitors and emergency services find the home more easily.

Spatial considerations, such as distance to the road, driveway width, and landscaping, will influence whether a sliding or swinging gate or vertical lift gate makes the most sense.

5. Maintaining the Driveway

A driveway is an investment, and taking proper care can help retain its value and reduce maintenance costs over time.

Depending on the type of driveway, here are some general measures to stay on top of upkeep:

•   Seal the driveway as recommended to prevent cracks.

•   Remove weeds from cracks in the surface.

•   Clean and fill cracks.

•   Fill in pothole depressions caused by heavy vehicles.

For colder climates, taking care of ice is important for personal safety and driveway maintenance alike. Removing snow promptly and spreading sand, salt, or a de-icing agent helps with traction and prevents ice from forming in driveway cracks.

Checking Local Permitting and Zoning

Local governments and homeowner associations (HOA) may have zoning and permitting guidelines that dictate where a driveway can be placed and what it can look like.

A zoning requirement could specify that a driveway must be at least 5 feet from the property line or that an expansion of an existing driveway requires zoning board approval.

HOA rules can be stricter and more specific. They might govern the type of surface material, adjacent landscaping, and ability to install a gate.

Checking that your desired improvements comply with such regulation could save time, money, and frustration.

Paying for Driveway Improvements

Deciding how to pay for driveway improvements is another important step. Like most home repairs, fixing the driveway could become more expensive as the problem gets worse.

Unexpected repair costs can do a number on a monthly budget. In fact, only 4 in 10 Americans would pay a $1,000 surprise expense from their savings, borrowing that money instead.

If you fall into this category, you still have options. Instead of depleting your savings account or pushing it off for future credit card payments, personal loans could spare you the high interest rates.

For revamping or building a driveway, a home improvement loan is another option to consider.

SoFi offers home improvement loans that don’t require home equity as collateral. Additionally, fixed-rate payments can help keep you on track and align with your budget.

Need to give your driveway a facelift? Learn how a home improvement loan from SoFi could make it happen.

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Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

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Both apartments and condominiums share quite a number of traits but differ in ownership. Apartments are often found in large residential complexes owned by a company. These complexes are often operated by professional property managers. Condos are also usually located in large residential complexes, but each condo unit is typically owned by an individual owner.

If you’re browsing the market for a rental, you’ve likely encountered a dazzling array of condos and apartments, and you might rent either type of property. The question of condo vs. apartment gets more complex if you’re debating whether to buy a condo or rent an apartment.

What Is a Condo?

A condo is a residential unit within a collective living community, where each individual condo is owned by a private owner, but the cost of maintaining communal areas is shared by all owners. While condos are often located in high-rise buildings, they can also take the form of a collection of standalone properties, each designated a “condo unit.”

One benefit to renting a condo is that you can deal directly with your landlord rather than a management office, which may mean more personalized attention for your needs.

For buyers, the purchase price for a condo can be significantly lower than the cost of most single-family homes.


💡 Quick Tip: When house hunting, don’t forget to lock in your home mortgage loan rate so there are no surprises if your offer is accepted.

What Is an Apartment?

An apartment is a rental unit within a building, complex, or community. Often, an apartment complex is managed by a property management company, which serves as both landlord and leasing agent for all of the units on the premises. In big cities, “apartment” is sometimes used as shorthand for a condo or co-op unit. If you’re choosing between a co-op and a condo to rent or buy, you’ll want to know how they differ, and whether you’re ready to buy an apartment.

Rental apartments may be located in high-rises but can also be found in larger homes that have been subdivided into separate units.

Renting an apartment offers greater mobility than buying a property, which makes it a flexible option if you’re only planning on staying in an area for a couple of years. A full-time management office or private landlord takes care of leasing, rent payments, and repairs.

Where They Differ

Now that we’ve covered the condo vs. apartment basics, let’s dive deeper into some key dimensions in where they differ.

Ownership

Each unit in a condo development is usually owned by a private homeowner. Unless the condo owner retains the services of a property manager, prospective renters can expect to deal with the condo owner directly when it comes to rental applications, monthly rent payments, and any maintenance issues that arise over the course of their lease.

Apartments are often managed by a property management company that may also own the apartment complex. Effectively, this makes the company the landlord for the entire property. Prospective apartment tenants will usually submit their application and rent payments through the apartment leasing office, while full-time maintenance staffers are on call to deal with any repairs. Of course, some apartments are in smaller buildings owned by individuals. In that case, a renter might deal directly with the property owner just as a renter in a condo does.

In either case, landlords may be amenable to your desire to negotiate rent in order to take you on or keep you. Paring the rent is the main goal in such a negotiation, but you can always ask for other benefits in lieu of a rent reduction.

Property Taxes

Renters aren’t responsible for paying property taxes, making them a non-issue in the apartment vs. condo choice. However, if you’re deciding whether to purchase a condo, understand that you’re responsible for paying property taxes for your unit every year. If you decide to rent your condo out, you should also expect to be taxed on any rental income you collect.

Design

Regardless of structure type, condo owners retain the right to make cosmetic adjustments to the interior of their properties. So if you’re interested in renting in a particular condo complex and you don’t like the design choices an owner has made, consider looking at other units that are available for rent — you may find a very different look and feel in another unit. Apartments within a rental complex, in contrast, typically share similar, if not identical, layouts and designs regardless of which unit you choose.

Amenities

The amenities of both apartments and condos vary widely and often depend on when and how they were built. Generally speaking, condos are more likely to offer customized amenities, like state-of-the-art appliances and granite countertops, that reflect the tastes and habits of their owners.

Fees

Apartments and condos of similar quality and in the same area should rent for around the same cost. Both condos and apartments often charge the following fees:

•   Application fee

•   First and last month’s rent

•   Security deposit

•   Credit and background check fee

•   Pet fees and deposit

•   Parking fee

Renters may find that condo owners are more willing to negotiate on things like fees than apartment management teams, as these are private owners trying to keep their units rented out for income purposes.

Buying a condo will mean paying monthly maintenance fees that cover insurance for and upkeep of common areas, water and sewer charges, garbage and recycling collection, condo management services, and contributions to a reserve account.

Community

Condos usually have a greater sense of community than apartment complexes, given that their residents are likely to stay around longer. In many cases, residents consist of the condo owners themselves.

By contrast, renters living in apartments often intend to stay for only a couple of years. While that’s not to say that there aren’t occasional resident get-togethers at some apartment complexes, you’re less likely to encounter the same faces over several months.

If you’re renting a condo, expect to abide by rules set by the homeowners association. These can sometimes be fairly strict. Apartments have their own set of rules that may be less stringent.

Renting and Financing

Renting an apartment involves one monthly rent payment, in addition to any utilities you’re responsible for. Of course, when you leave the apartment, you leave with just your security deposit, assuming all payments have been made and no damage has been done.

Financing a condo and purchasing the property allows you to lock in your monthly mortgage payments at a steady long-term rate and gives you the chance to start building equity. In exchange, you’ll be required to make a down payment and be responsible for any taxes, insurance, and maintenance fees, among other costs.

Deciding whether it’s better to buy a condo or to rent — or to get a house or condo — is a complicated decision that depends on your personal finances and your lifestyle. If you’re thinking about settling down, have a stable job with steady income, and have enough saved up for a down payment with an emergency fund to spare, buying a condo or house may be the right choice for you. However, if you’re still exploring the area or have variable income with limited savings, it may be best to continue renting. For those trying to decide between renting an apartment and financing a condo or house, a mortgage help center can help provide answers.


💡 Quick Tip: Your parents or grandparents probably got mortgages for 30 years. But these days, you can get them for 20, 15, or 10 years — and pay less interest over the life of the loan.

Maintenance

Most apartment complexes have an on-site building supervisor who can address maintenance issues. Given that the owner of a large apartment complex oversees all of the units, they’re incentivized to employ someone full time to attend to the day-to-day affairs. This often means that apartment owners can react faster than condo owners, who sometimes don’t even live on the premises.

By contrast, condo units are usually owned by landlords, and most of them hire a third-party contractor to come in and make repairs as necessary. In some cases, condo owners may be handy and handle the repairs on their own.

If you buy a condo, you’ll have a regular maintenance fee that covers the shared parts of the property, but because condo owners typically own just the interior of their unit, any repairs in the condo unit will be separate. (It’s a good idea to pore over the covenants, conditions, and restrictions to see exactly what is part of your unit or part of the common elements.)

Condominium vs Apartment: A Side-by-Side Comparison

To help sum it all up, here’s a quick guide to the condo and apartment traits discussed above.

	Condo	Apartment
Ownership	Private owner	Property management company, if a large complex; private owner if a smaller building
Property taxes	Paid by condo owner	Paid by building owner
Design	Customized by owner	Uniform across all units
Fees	First and last month’s rent Security deposit Credit and background check	Application fee First and last month’s rent Security deposit Pet fees
Community	Typically condo owners and long-term residents	Typically shorter-term renters
Renting & Financing	Condo renters: Monthly rent Utilities Condo owners: Mortgage payment Utilities Property taxes Maintenance fees Property insurance	Monthly rent Utilities Renter’s insurance
Maintenance	Private owner hires third-party contractors for repairs and maintenance	On-site maintenance staff

Condo vs Apartment: Which One May Be Right for You?

Whether a condo or apartment is right for you depends on your preferred rental experience. If you’re looking for something that feels a little more akin to home and don’t mind dealing directly with your landlord when discussing repairs and rent payments, a condo (or an apartment in a small privately owned apartment building) may be the better option for you.

On the other hand, if you prefer dealing with a full-time staff of property managers, want something more structured, and don’t mind cookie-cutter corporate apartments, an apartment may be the better rental option for you.

Prospective condo buyers will want to keep their finances and monthly budget in mind when deciding if they want to rent or buy. While the idea of building equity is appealing, settling down and committing to a mortgage isn’t for everyone. You’ll want to thoughtfully evaluate your ability to make monthly payments and whether you want to stick around an area.

The Takeaway

In the condo vs. apartment comparison, you’ll pay similar costs when renting properties of similar quality. Things get more complex if you’re debating whether to buy a condo or rent an apartment, as there are myriad added costs for condo owners in exchange for the chance to build equity.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

Why are condos more expensive than apartments?

In general, condos and apartments of comparable quality cost around the same amount to rent. A condo owner, however, will likely face higher monthly costs than an apartment renter, thanks to the added costs that come with owning a property, including mortgage payments, taxes, insurance, and maintenance fees. Over time, the added expense may be offset by the equity built through mortgage payments.

Which retains more value, condos or apartments?

Over the long run, both a condo and an apartment in a co-op building can lose or gain value. Whether your specific property appreciates will depend on local market factors and on upkeep of your unit as well as of the larger complex.

Can I get a loan to buy a condo or co-op apartment?

A qualified buyer can finance a condo with a government-backed or conventional mortgage loan. Getting a loan for buying into a housing cooperative can be more difficult. The buyer is purchasing shares that give them the right to live in the unit — personal property, not real property. That’s one reason that some lenders do not offer financing for co-ops.

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Photo credit: iStock/Michael Vi

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you may qualify for special mortgage rates and incentives not available to other homebuyers. For Midwestern buyers, we’ve rounded up all of the information you need to understand which programs you may qualify for in your region.

Recommended: What is the Average Down Payment on a House?

Popular Midwest First Time Home Buyer Programs

Ohio

The real estate market has been buzzing in the Buckeye State over the last year, with the number of homes sold up 5% as of February 2024. Home prices in Ohio were up 9% compared to last year, hitting a $227,800 median price, according to Redfin. Sales prices had the most substantial jump in Maple Heights, Kettering, and Springfield, where increases all topped 30%.

Things can look a bit intimidating for first-time homebuyers seeking a home mortgage loan in Ohio in 2024. Don’t fret, though, as qualifying for a mortgage and affording a home may be more within your means than you think.

The Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) offers a variety of programs for low- and moderate-income first-time and repeat homebuyers meant to help them achieve homeownership.

💡 Learn about Ohio first-time homebuyer programs

Michigan

With Detroit’s revitalization, the popularity of resort towns on the shores of the Great Lakes, and the proximity to wilderness in the Upper Peninsula, Michigan real estate is bustling. The good news for first-time homebuyers: The Wolverine State is still relatively affordable.

Sales in Michigan are up about 1% year over year as of January 2024 and home prices are up 9.2% this past year. But despite that last stat, there’s good news for first-time homebuyers: The median sales price is $228,000, according to Redfin, which is far below the national median existing-home sales price of $379,100.

First-time homebuyers looking to settle in Michigan may find help through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority .

💡 Learn about Michigan first-time homebuyer programs

Indiana

At $228,552, Indiana’s average home value in early 2024 is up 4.6% year over year, according to Zillow. Even with that increase, typical costs here are lower than the numbers for America as a whole. That doesn’t mean buying a home for the first time is easy, but it certainly places home ownership within reach for more people, especially when state programs offer a helping hand in terms of their down payment, mortgage, and closing costs.

There’s lots of helpful information on the home-buying process available to Hoosier house-hunters, and there are a number of programs that can defray the costs of buying a home. First-time buyers, especially, might want to have a look.

💡 Learn about Indiana first-time homebuyer programs

Wisconsin

Home prices increased 5.5% annually here as of January 2024. And the number of homes sold rose 6.5% as the market began to warm up. The median sale price of a house in the state is $274,400, reports Redfin.

Recommended: Guide to Choosing a Mortgage Term

While the uptick in cost may cause concern for those saving to purchase a property, there are many opportunities to be had for the qualified first-time homebuyer in Wisconsin.

💡 Learn about Wisconsin first-time homebuyer programs

Illinois

High prices, low inventory, and an influx of outside investors and cash buyers make diving into the market as a first-time buyer in Illinois feel daunting.

According to Redfin, the median sale price in Illinois hit $265,900 in January 2024 — an 11.2% year-over-year increase. But in some communities, the numbers have been much higher. In Winnetka, where home prices were up 40.2%, the median purchase price was $1.373 million. Marion saw an 82.3% jump. Fortunately homes there are still relatively affordable, at a median price of $174,250.

Another bit of good news: The state and some counties offer financial assistance. There also are longstanding federal programs that could improve a buyer’s chances of success.

💡 Learn about Illinois first-time homebuyer programs

Minnesota

The Land of 10,000 Lakes has seen a relatively modest 2% year-over-year increase in home values during 2023. Currently, the average Minnesota home value is $316,980, according to Zillow, which is slightly below the national average.

There are several opportunities for the first-time homebuyer in Minnesota through state programs that give assistance with mortgage rates and down payment and closing costs to those who qualify.

💡 Learn about Minnesota first-time homebuyer programs

Iowa

Homes in the heartland of Iowa remain relatively affordable, with an average value of $205,988 vs. the national figure of $342,941, according to Zillow. A number of homebuyer assistance programs also exist that can make the home-buying journey more affordable for Hawkeye State shoppers.

Most of these programs are available through the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) and can especially be of help to first-time buyers.

💡 Learn about Iowa first-time homebuyer programs

Missouri

The real estate market in Missouri has remained fairly calm, with the state’s average home value of $234,949 nicely below national averages.

The good thing about being a first-time homebuyer with a low to moderate income is that state and local programs offer mortgages and down payment assistance to those who qualify. Even better: You qualify as a first-timer if you have not owned a home in three years.

💡 Learn about Missouri first-time homebuyer programs

North Dakota

Thinking about moving to North Dakota? The state has a lot going for it. In addition to tons of open space, gorgeous landscapes, and a relaxed way of life, the cost of living is lower than the U.S. average and home prices in the state dropped a tiny bit in the year ending February 2024. The average home value in North Dakota is now $248,022, according to Zillow. That means there are plenty of opportunities to find your affordable dream home in North Dakota.

There are several state programs that provide financial assistance and low-interest mortgage loans to the first-time homebuyer in North Dakota. Many of these programs are designed to help low- to moderate-income buyers, and they may have income and purchase price limits, a required credit score, or other criteria you’ll need to meet.

💡 Learn about North Dakota first-time homebuyer programs

South Dakota

The Mount Rushmore State saw a 6.8% increase in home prices from February 2023 to February 2024, however the cost of living remains relatively low here compared to other parts of the country. The median home price in South Dakota is now $311,500, according to Redfin.

If you lack the money for a down payment or aren’t sure how you will afford a mortgage, programs in the state may be able to provide assistance.

💡 Learn about South Dakota first-time homebuyer programs

Nebraska

Considering buying a home in Nebraska? Now is a good time to do so. The median price of a home there is $274,600. That’s up 5.4% year-over-year as of February 2024 but still below the national average.

The first-time homebuyer in Nebraska can also get financial assistance through state programs. Here’s what you need to know as you start your home shopping.

💡 Learn about Nebraska first-time homebuyer programs

Kansas

Though their housing market is generally known for being more affordable than most, first-time homebuyers in Kansas are facing many of the same challenges as buyers across the country. Prices have been rising. Inventory is low. And the competition for available homes can be fierce.

The median price of a home in Kansas was $290,300 in January 2024, a 2.6% increase in 12 months. In some areas, such as Leavenworth, Shawnee, and Leawood, the price increases were greater than 20%.

Fortunately, buyers who are struggling with the costs of purchasing their first home in Kansas may be able to get financial help through programs offered by the state and some cities. There also are longstanding federal programs that may improve a buyer’s chances of success.

💡 Learn about Kansas first-time homebuyer programs

The Takeaway

Qualifying first-time home buyers have many options available to them in the Midwest, including down payment assistance. If you’re looking to buy your first home and aren’t sure how to get started, looking at a list of homebuyer programs in your state is a great place to start. Once you know what kind of assistance you may qualify for, it’s a good idea to estimate just how much house you can really afford using a home affordability calculator.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

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Photo credit: iStock/Nicholas Smith

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.


External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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It is possible to get a home loan while on maternity leave. The process may involve your lender verifying your “temporary leave income,” if any; your regular income; and your agreed-upon date of return. Anyone on a standard temporary leave is considered employed, whether the absence is paid or unpaid.

Read on to learn more about buying a home while pregnant and how this will impact your ability to get a mortgage.

Buying a House While Pregnant

Hey, why not take on two of the biggest life stressors at once? Sometimes it just happens this way, with parents preparing for a baby and a new home and mortgage.

First, consider if you can wait a bit to buy a home. It may lead to less stress overall during the pregnancy. Plus, the added pressure of a deadline may lead to hasty decision-making that buyers could regret.

And unless an employer is covering moving expenses, add that sizable cost to all the rest.

But if the move can’t be avoided because of a job relocation or other circumstances, it may be important to find a home before the baby arrives. Which does have a silver lining: Saving for a down payment could interfere with goals like saving for a child’s college tuition.

Another possible benefit to buying a house while pregnant is that the relocation could lead to a better school district or area to raise a child.

Ultimately, the decision to buy a house while pregnant is personal.


💡 Quick Tip: Want the comforts of home and to feel comfortable with your home loan? SoFi has a simple online application and a team dedicated to closing your loan on time. No surprise SoFi has been named a Top Online Lender in 2024 by LendingTree/Newsweek.

What Is the FMLA?

The Family and Medical Leave Act, or FMLA, gives eligible employees job protection and up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave a year in the event of:

•   Childbirth

•   Adoption or foster child care

•   Care for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition

•   A personal serious health condition

•   Qualifying exigencies arising from covered active duty or “call to covered active duty status”

The FMLA guarantees that the employee can return to their job or an equivalent one and that they’ll receive health care benefits during their leave.

Employees are eligible if they work for a company that has 50 or more staffers and have completed at least 1,250 hours of work in the previous year.

In addition to the FMLA’s 12 unpaid weeks off, more and more states are enacting paid family leave laws. Currently, 13 states plus the District of Columbia have made this mandatory. And your employer may cover your pregnancy, childbirth, and recovery thanks to short-term disability insurance. Your benefit would be a percentage of your normal earnings.

Recommended: How Much Does it Cost to Adopt a Child?

How Maternity Leave Impacts a Mortgage

Before diving into the nuances of maternity leave and its impact on qualifying for a mortgage, here’s a quick refresher course on the home-buying process.

Mortgage approval from a lender primarily hinges on two factors:

•   Creditworthiness. How likely is the borrower to pay back the loan, based on their credit history?

•   Ability to pay. Does the borrower generate enough income, and have a certain debt-to-income ratio, to make the monthly mortgage payments?

The lender may contact an employer to verify a borrower’s employment status and income.

Why could getting loans for pregnant women prove a challenge? Income. Consider these points:

•   As long as the lender can verify that the borrower is employed — and remember, someone on temporary leave is considered employed — and generates enough income to cover the mortgage, that could be enough.

•   Expectant borrowers aren’t legally required to disclose their pregnancy to a lender. However, the employer can tell the lender about impending maternity leave when they call to verify employment status.

•   If a borrower is going on unpaid leave, they may need to disclose it to the lender. That’s because the period without pay may qualify as a financial hardship, which a borrower is required to inform a lender of.

•   The lender can’t assume the mother-to-be won’t return to work after maternity leave. Lenders consider that the mother will return to work after maternity leave and continue bringing home paychecks.

•   Before approval, the lender will ask the borrower for written notice of her intent to return to work, and may ask for an expected return date.

•   The mortgage lender may request a tax slip from the last calendar year if the borrower is a salaried employee.

•   A lender may approve the mortgage if your employer verifies in writing that you will return to your previous position or a similar one after your maternity leave. The lender will also consider the timing of the first payment.

•   If the borrower will have returned to work when the first mortgage payment is due, the lender can consider regular income in qualifying for the mortgage.

•   If the borrower will return to work after the first mortgage payment due date, the lender must use the borrower’s temporary leave income (if any) or regular employment income, whichever is less, and then may add available liquid financial reserves.

•   VA loans don’t count temporary leave income towards qualifying for a mortgage, however.

💡 Quick Tip: Want the comforts of home and to feel comfortable with your home loan? SoFi has a simple online application and a team dedicated to closing your loan on time. No surprise SoFi has been named a Top Online Lender in 2024 by LendingTree/Newsweek.

Should I Buy a Home While on Maternity Leave?

For those who qualify for a mortgage while on maternity leave, the question may be, “Should I buy a house while on maternity leave?” not “Can I buy a house while on maternity leave?”

As mentioned, moving can be an incredibly stressful process, pregnancy or no pregnancy. And even if you made a budget for a baby, life has a way of throwing in surprises.

Homeownership can also come with financial surprises. The majority of homeowners reported paying for an unexpected repair within the first year.

Having a child and buying a home both require saving some significant cash. By budgeting, doing the two simultaneously is possible. So it’s your call. Not taking the double plunge could give you time to review what you need to buy a house.

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyers Guide

Home Loans With SoFi

Pregnancy is not a legal limiting factor in a mortgage lender’s eyes, but getting a home loan while on maternity leave will depend on your income, savings, work return date, and credit history.

Whether you’re on a temporary leave or not, it can be worthwhile to take a look at your home loan options.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

Does being on maternity leave affect getting a mortgage?

It can, but only in the sense that maternity leave can affect a homebuyer’s reported income. If buyers anticipate an unpaid maternity leave, they may need a sizable savings account.

Should you buy a home on maternity leave?

Buying a home while on maternity leave depends on your family’s needs and finances. But moving can be stressful, and adding infant care can be a lot to handle.

Who does FMLA cover?

The Family and Medical Leave Act provides 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for eligible employees in the case of the birth or adoption of a child or placement of a foster child, and for other reasons.

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Photo credit: iStock/FatCamera

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.


External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, the U.S. foreclosure market often unveils key trends that will shape the future of home ownership. According to property data provider ATTOM , the number of housing units with foreclosure filings in March was 32,878, a drop of less than 1% from the previous month and a 10% decline from the previous year. Rob Barber, CEO of ATTOM, highlights that this ongoing “persistently hot” housing market is likely due to sizable homeowner equity.

Foreclosure starts increased nationwide by 2%, with notable spikes in states like New Hampshire, Illinois, and Florida. Moreover, while there was a 7% increase in bank repossessions from the previous quarter, there’s a notable 20% decline compared to a year ago, indicating some stabilization in the REO (Real Estate Owned) sector. The average time to foreclose showed a slight increase from the previous quarter, but continues a downward trend observed since mid-2020, with states like Louisiana, Hawaii, and New York having longer foreclosure timelines, contrasting with states like Montana, Virginia, and Texas, which boast shorter timelines. Borrowers should stay up to date on their mortgage payments and work closely with their lenders to explore options for assistance if needed.

Read on for the foreclosure rates in March 2024 – plus the five counties, or county equivalents, with the highest rates within those states.

50 State Foreclosure Rates

As previously noted, foreclosure rates saw a negligible drop compared to last month and to last year. Read on for the March foreclosure rates for all 50 states — plus the District of Columbia — beginning with the state that had the lowest rate of foreclosure filings per housing unit.

District of Columbia

Ranking in population between Vermont and Alaska, the country’s second and third least populous states, Washington, D.C. observed 167 foreclosures in March, up about 17% from the previous month. With a total of 350,372 housing units, the foreclosure rate of the nation’s capital was one in every 2,098 households, putting it above the state of Illinois (#1).

50. Vermont

In 49th place for population, the Green Mountain State ranked 50th for its foreclosure rate in March. Of the state’s 335,138 housing units, 11 homes went into foreclosure at a rate of one in every 30,467 households. Only four counties in the state saw foreclosures. They were (from highest to lowest): Rutland, Windsor, Washington, and Chittenden.

49. Montana

Listed as 44th in population, the Treasure State rated 49th again for its foreclosure rate this month. With 24 foreclosures out of 517,430 housing units, Montana’s foreclosure rate was one in every 21,560 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Wheatland, Chouteau, Deer Lodge, Richland, and Carbon.

48. South Dakota

The Mount Rushmore State nabbed the 48th spot once more for its foreclosure rate in March. Having 393,150 total housing units, the fifth-least populous state had a foreclosure rate of one in every 17,870 households with 22 foreclosures. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Aurora, Codington, Minnehaha, Brown, and Meade.

47. West Virginia

Ranked 39th in population, the Mountain State claimed the 47th spot for the second month in a row. It has a total of 859,142 housing units, of which 58 went into foreclosure. This means that the foreclosure rate was one in every 14,813 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Hancock, Tyler, Fayette, Berkeley, and Cabell.

46. Oregon

The 27th most populous state ranked 46th for highest foreclosure rate in March. Of the Pacific Wonderland’s 1,818,599 homes, 124 went into foreclosure, making for a foreclosure rate of one in every 14,666 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Jefferson, Clatsop, Douglas, Clackamas, and Coos.

45. Kansas

The Sunflower State ranked 45th for highest foreclosure rate this month. With 1,278,548 homes and a total of 100 housing units going into foreclosure, the 35th most populous state’s foreclosure rate was one in every 12,785 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Morton, Clark, Logan, Kearny, and Bourbon.

44. Rhode Island

The eighth-least populous state placed 44th for highest foreclosure rate in March. A total of 38 homes went into foreclosure out of 483,053 total housing units, making the foreclosure rate for the Ocean State one in every 12,712 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Kent, Bristol, Washington, Providence, and Newport.

43. New Mexico

The 36th most populous state claimed the 43rd spot for highest foreclosure rate this month. Of the Land of Enchantment’s 943,149 homes, 82 went into foreclosure, making for a foreclosure rate of one in every 11,502 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Chaves, Eddy, Socorro, Lincoln, and Sandoval.

42. Mississippi

Ranked 34th in population, the Magnolia State experienced 121 foreclosures out of 1,324,992 total housing units. This puts the foreclosure rate at one in every 10,950 homes and into the 42nd spot this month. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Grenada, Simpson, Union, Copiah, and Lee.

41. Washington

Sorted as 13th in population, the Evergreen State ranked 41st for its foreclosure rate in March. Of its 3,216,243 housing units, 323 went into foreclosure, making the state’s foreclosure rate one in every 9,957 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Pacific, Lewis, Pierce, Cowlitz, and Grays Harbor.

Recommended: Tips on Buying a Foreclosed Home

40. New Hampshire

The Granite State, and the 41st most populous state in the U.S., ranked 40th for highest foreclosure rate. New Hampshire saw 66 of its 640,335 homes go into foreclosure, making for a foreclosure rate of one in every 9,702 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Belknap, Coos, Sullivan, Merrimack, and Carroll.

39. Wisconsin

With 326 foreclosures out of 2,734,511 total housing units, America’s Dairyland and the 20th most populous state secured the 39th spot with a foreclosure rate of one in every 8,388 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Juneau, Iron, Rusk, Taylor, and Trempealeau.

38. Wyoming

The country’s least populous state claimed the 38th spot for highest foreclosure rate this month. With 273,291 housing units, of which 33 went into foreclosure, the Equality State’s foreclosure rate was one in every 8,282 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Carbon, Sweetwater, Campbell, Sublette, and Big Horn.

37. North Dakota

The Peace Garden State’s foreclosure rate was one in every 8,275 homes. This puts the fourth-least populous state — with 372,376 housing units and 45 foreclosures — into 37th place. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Pembina, Hettinger, Kidder, Grant, and Bottineau.

36. Missouri

Coming in at 19th in population, the Show-Me State took the 36th spot for highest foreclosure rate this month. Of its 2,795,030 homes, 348 went into foreclosure, making for a foreclosure rate of one in every 8,032 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Caldwell, Mississippi, Laclede, Dunklin, and Barry.

35. Virginia

With 455 homes going into foreclosure, the 12th most populous state ranked 35th for highest foreclosure rate in March. Having 3,625,285 total housing units, the Old Dominion saw a foreclosure rate of one in every 7,968 households. The counties and independent city with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Franklin City, Lexington City, King And Queen, Dickenson, and Halifax.

34. Alaska

The Last Frontier saw 40 foreclosures this month, making the foreclosure rate one in every 7,938 homes. This caused the third-least populous state, with a total of 317,529 housing units, to claim the 34th spot. The boroughs with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Anchorage, Matanuska-Susitna, Kenai Peninsula, Juneau, and Fairbanks North Star.

33. Nebraska

Ranking 37th in population, the Cornhusker State placed 33rd in March with a foreclosure rate of one in every 7,640 homes. With a total of 848,023 housing units, the state had 111 foreclosure filings. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Garfield, Nemaha, Scotts Bluff, Webster, and Sherman.

32. Hawaii

The Paradise of the Pacific, and the 40th most populous state, came in 32nd for highest foreclosure rate. Of its 560,873 homes, 80 went into foreclosure, making for a foreclosure rate of one in every 7,011 households. Only four of the five counties in the state saw foreclosures. They were (from highest to lowest): Hawaii, Kauai, Honolulu, and Maui.

31. Tennessee

Ranked 16th in population, the Volunteer State endured 442 foreclosures out of its 3,050,850 housing units. This puts the foreclosure rate at one in every 6,902 households and in 31st place for the second month in a row. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Lake, Hardeman, Houston, Meigs, and Hardin.

Recommended: What Is a Short Sale?

30. Michigan

Ranked 10th in population, the Wolverine State secured the 30th spot with a foreclosure rate of one in every 6,706 homes. With a total of 4,580,447 housing units, the state had 683 foreclosure filings. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Clare, Shiawassee, Gratiot, St. Joseph, and Jackson.

29. Kentucky

With a total of 1,999,202 housing units, the Bluegrass State saw 301 homes go into foreclosure, thus landing in 29th place in March. This puts the foreclosure rate for the 29th most populous state at one in every 6,642 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Powell, Greenup, Clinton, Bath, and Jefferson.

28. Idaho

Ranked 38th in population, the Gem State received the 28th spot due to its 119 housing units that went into foreclosure this month. With 758,877 total housing units, the state’s foreclosure rate was one in every 6,377 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Custer, Bingham, Bonneville, Caribou, and Bonner.

27. Minnesota

Ranked 22nd for most populous state, the Land of 10,000 Lakes obtained the 27th spot for highest foreclosure rate in March. It has 2,493,956 housing units, of which 396 went into foreclosure, making the state’s foreclosure rate one in every 6,298 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Mille Lacs, Lac Qui Parle, McLeod, Redwood, and Isanti.

26. Colorado

The 21st most populous state ranked 26th for highest foreclosure rate this month. Of the Centennial State’s 2,500,095 housing units, 401 went into foreclosure, making for a foreclosure rate of one in every 6,235 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Phillips, Logan, Pueblo, Morgan, and Elbert.

25. Oklahoma

The Sooners State landed the 25th spot in March. With housing units totaling 1,751,802, the 28th most populous state saw 285 homes go into foreclosure at a rate of one in every 6,147 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Nowata, Caddo, Garfield, Custer, and Murray.

24. Louisiana

Sorted as 25th in population, the Pelican State placed 24th for highest foreclosure rate this month. Louisiana had a foreclosure rate of one in every 5,747 households, with 362 out of 2,080,371 homes going into foreclosure. The parishes with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Richland, Terrebonne, Plaquemines, Iberville, and West Baton Rouge.

23. North Carolina

The ninth-most populous state claimed 23rd place for highest foreclosure rate. Out of 4,739,881 homes, 863 went into foreclosure. This puts the Tar Heel State’s foreclosure rate at one in every 5,492 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Perquimans, Gates, Anson, Northampton, and Vance.

22. Alabama

Listed as 24th in population, the Yellowhammer State came in 22nd for highest foreclosure rate this month. Of its 2,296,920 homes, 428 went into foreclosure, making for a foreclosure rate of one in every 5,367 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Hale, Calhoun, Mobile, Jefferson, and Walker.

21. Arizona

Sorted as 14th in population, the Grand Canyon State withstood 596 foreclosures out of its total 3,097,768 housing units. This puts the foreclosure rate at one in every 5,198 homes and into the 21st spot in March. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Graham, Navajo, Yuma, Pinal, and La Paz.

Recommended: Are You Ready to Buy a House? — Take The Quiz

20. Arkansas

Listed as the 33rd most populous state, the Land of Opportunity ranked 20th for highest foreclosure rate this month. The state contains 1,371,709 housing units, of which 264 went into foreclosure, making its latest foreclosure rate one in every 5,196 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Prairie, Arkansas, Desha, Hot Spring, and Union.

19. Maine

Ranked 42nd in population, the Pine Tree State placed 19th for highest foreclosure rate in March. With a total of 741,803 housing units, Maine saw 143 foreclosures for a foreclosure rate of one in every 5,187 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Aroostook, Androscoggin, Oxford, Waldo, and Penobscot.

18. Georgia

Ranked eighth in population, the Peach State took the 18th spot for highest foreclosure rate this month. Of its 4,426,780 homes, 910 were foreclosed on. This puts the state’s foreclosure rate at one in every 4,865 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Lanier, Crawford, Henry, Haralson, and Johnson.

17. Utah

The Beehive State placed 17th for highest foreclosure rate in March. Of its 1,162,654 housing units, 245 homes went into foreclosure, making the 17th most populous state’s foreclosure rate one in every 4,746 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Emery, Tooele, Wasatch, Juab, and Washington.

16. Pennsylvania

The Keystone State had the 16th highest foreclosure rate for the second month in a row. The fifth-most populous state saw 1,266 homes out of 5,753,908 total housing units go into foreclosure, making the state’s foreclosure rate one in every 4,545 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Philadelphia, Delaware, Wayne, Fayette, and Bucks.

15. Iowa

The Hawkeye State had the 15th highest foreclosure rate in March. With 325 out of 1,417,064 homes going into foreclosure, the 31st most populous state’s foreclosure rate was one in every 4,360 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Audubon, Keokuk, Monroe, Clinton, and Jasper.

14. Texas

The Lone Star State withstood 2,885 foreclosures this month. With a foreclosure rate of one in every 4,040 households, this puts the second-most populous state in the U.S., with a whopping 11,654,971 housing units, into 14th place. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Liberty, Madison, Atascosa, Jones, and Kaufman.

13. New York

With 2,144 out of a total 8,494,452 housing units going into foreclosure, the Empire State claimed the 13th spot in March. The fourth-most populous state’s foreclosure rate was one in every 3,962 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Orange, Greene, Suffolk, Nassau, and Rensselaer.

12. Massachusetts

The 15th most populous state ranked 12th for highest foreclosure rate this month. Of the Bay State’s 2,999,314 housing units, 775 went into foreclosure, making for a foreclosure rate of one in every 3,870 homes. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Hampden, Plymouth, Worcester, Berkshire, and Essex.

11. California

The country’s most populous state ranked 11th for highest foreclosure rate in March. Of its impressive 14,424,442 housing units, 3,975 went into foreclosure, making the Golden State’s foreclosure rate one in every 3,629 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Lake, Mendocino, Madera, Kern, and Shasta.

Recommended: Your 2024 Guide to All Things Home

10. Nevada

Ranked 32nd in population, the Silver State took the 10th spot for highest foreclosure rate this month. With one in every 3,181 homes going into foreclosure, and a total of 1,288,357 housing units, the state had 405 foreclosure filings. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Lyon, White Pine, Clark, Lander, and Nye.

9. Ohio

The Buckeye State placed ninth in March with a foreclosure rate of one in every 3,167 homes. With a sum of 5,251,209 housing units, the seventh-most populous state had a total of 1,658 filings. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Knox, Cuyahoga, Shelby, Preble, and Defiance.

8. Indiana

The 17th largest state by population, the Crossroads of America landed the eighth spot this month with a foreclosure rate of one in every 3,129 homes. Of its 2,931,710 housing units, 937 went into foreclosure. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Scott, Perry, Clinton, Howard, and Sullivan.

7. Maryland

Ranked 18th for most populous state, America in Miniature took seventh place for highest foreclosure rate in March. With a total of 2,531,075 housing units, of which 815 went into foreclosure, the state’s foreclosure rate was one in every 3,106 households. The counties and independent city with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Kent, Dorchester, Prince George’s County, Baltimore City, and Calvert.

6. Delaware

The sixth-least populous state in the country, the Small Wonder nabbed sixth place this month. With one in every 3,051 homes going into foreclosure and a total of 451,556 housing units, the state saw 148 foreclosures filed. Having only three counties in the state, the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Kent, New Castle, and Sussex.

5. South Carolina

The 23rd most populous state had the fifth highest foreclosure rate in March with one in every 2,867 homes going into foreclosure. Of the Palmetto State’s 2,362,253 housing units, 824 were foreclosed on this month. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Fairfield, Hampton, Dorchester, Darlington, and Spartanburg.

4. Florida

The third-most populous state in the country has a total of 9,915,957 housing units, of which 3,568 went into foreclosure. This puts the Sunshine State’s foreclosure rate at one in every 2,779 homes and into fourth place this month. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Hernando, Citrus, Wakulla, Osceola, and Charlotte.

3. New Jersey

With a foreclosure rate of one in every 2,638 homes, the Garden State ranked third for highest foreclosure rate this month. The 11th most populous state contains 3,756,340 housing units, of which 1,424 went into foreclosure. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Cumberland, Warren, Sussex, Salem, and Atlantic.

2. Connecticut

With 587 of its 1,531,332 homes going into foreclosure, the Constitution State had the second highest foreclosure rate at one in every 2,609 households. In this 29th most populous state, the counties that had the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Windham, New Haven, New London, Tolland, and Fairfield.

1. Illinois

The Land of Lincoln had the highest foreclosure rate in all 50 states in March. Of its 5,427,357 homes, 2,130 went into foreclosure, making the sixth-most populous state’s foreclosure rate one in every 2,548 households. The counties with the most foreclosures per housing unit were (from highest to lowest): Gallatin, Jasper, Whiteside, Schuyler, and Massac.

The Takeaway

Of all 50 states, California had the most foreclosure filings (3,975), and Vermont had the least (11). As for the states with the highest foreclosure rates, Illinois, Connecticut, and New Jersey took the top three spots, respectively.

Two regions – the Great Lakes and the Mideast – tied for having the largest presence among the 10 states that ranked the highest for foreclosure rates. The states in the Great Lakes region were (from highest to lowest): Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. The states in the Mideast region were (from highest to lowest): New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland.

Four regions – the Far West, Southeast, Plains, and New England – tied for having the largest presence among the 10 states that ranked the lowest for foreclosure rates. The states in the Far West region were (from highest to lowest): Washington and Oregon. The states in the Southeast region were (from highest to lowest): Mississippi and West Virginia. The states in the Plains region were (from highest to lowest): Kansas and South Dakota. Finally, the states in the New England region were (from highest to lowest): Rhode Island and Vermont.

Discover more about home loans at SoFi.

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*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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