Can You Afford to Live in Your Current California House Forever? [Quiz]

California housing costs continue to soar, putting homeowners under increasing financial pressure. If you’ve thought, “I can’t afford my house anymore,” you’re far from alone. Many California homeowners face this challenge daily, juggling rising mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance premiums, and maintenance costs.

Take our quick quiz below to assess whether staying in your current home makes financial sense for your situation.

Take the Quiz: Can You Afford to Stay in Your California Home?

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1. Are you spending more than 30% of your monthly income on your mortgage, utilities, and housing-related costs?

• Yes
• No

2. Have your property taxes or insurance premiums increased significantly in the last 2 years?

• Yes
• No

3. Do you frequently put off home repairs due to cost?

• Yes
• No

4. Do you still owe more than 50% of your home's value?

• Yes
• No

5. Has your income decreased or become unstable in the last year?

• Yes
• No

6. Are you struggling to afford other basic expenses due to housing costs?

• Yes
• No

7. Is your current mortgage making it difficult to save for retirement or emergencies?

• Yes
• No

8. Are you planning a major life event (divorce, retirement, new job) that will affect your income or expenses?

• Yes
• No

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Submit Answers

0–2 Yes Answers:
Your housing situation appears relatively stable for now. However, California's housing market changes rapidly, so continue reviewing your finances annually as costs and circumstances evolve.

3–5 Yes Answers:
You're in a gray zone where housing costs are creating some financial pressure. Consider reassessing your budget, exploring refinancing options, or investigating whether selling makes more sense than continuing to struggle.

6–8 Yes Answers:
Your current home may not be financially sustainable long-term. The strain on your budget likely affects other areas of your financial health. It may be time to explore alternatives like downsizing or selling for cash to regain financial stability.

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What to Do If You Can’t Afford Your House Anymore

If you are realizing, “I can’t afford my house anymore,” you’re not alone. Many California homeowners face this reality, but you have several options to consider.

Downsizing to a more affordable home

Moving to a smaller property or a more affordable neighborhood can dramatically reduce your monthly expenses while still allowing you to maintain homeownership. This option works well for empty nesters or those willing to trade square footage for financial breathing room.

Selling your home for cash to avoid foreclosure or mounting debt

When financial pressure becomes severe, selling your home quickly for cash can help you avoid the devastating impact of foreclosure on your credit. A cash sale eliminates the uncertainty of traditional market listings and lets you move forward with certainty.

Exploring California homeowner assistance programs

California offers several programs for struggling homeowners, including mortgage assistance and forbearance options. However, these programs often have strict qualification requirements and may only delay rather than solve underlying affordability issues.

Talking to a real estate investment company like Osborne Homes

Cash buyers like Osborne Homes specialize in helping homeowners who need to sell quickly due to financial constraints. We buy houses in any condition, eliminating repair costs and providing a guaranteed sale when you need it most.

How Osborne Homes Can Help You Move Forward

For over 15 years, Osborne Homes has helped thousands of California homeowners escape unsustainable housing situations. Our team understands the stress of financial pressure and works with you to find the right solution.

When you work with Osborne Homes, you’ll benefit from:

• A guaranteed cash purchase
• No repairs or renovations needed
• No real estate commissions or closing costs
• No showings or open houses
• A custom solution tailored to your specific situation
• Closing on your timeline, often in as little as three weeks

Don’t let an unaffordable house drain your finances and stress your family. Contact Osborne Homes today to discuss how selling your California home for cash could be your path to financial freedom.

Sell Your House Fast