As interest rates climb and home prices remain elevated, first-time and repeat homebuyers are encountering a challenging real estate market. According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors, the average age of a firsttime homebuyer is 38. This marks an all-time high, and the trend shows that first-time homebuyers are getting older due to factors like rising housing costs and insecurities about the home-buying process. However, industry professionals say there are strategies buyers can use to navigate these conditions and still achieve their homeownership goals. “When rates go down, competition increases and home prices go up,” said Mortgage Advisor Alice Lund during a recent first-time homebuyer and investment property seminar. “If you’re waiting for prices or interest rates to drop, don’t. Go ahead and buy now.” Lund encouraged buyers to consider purchasing a home now even if interest rates are higher than in previous years. She explained owning a home puts…