The national median home price has stabilized around $429,156 in the U.S. and $663,828 in Canada, with mortgage rates easing to about 6.0-6.3%. The 28/36 rule guides affordability, suggesting housing costs stay below 28% and total debt under 36% of gross income. Buyers should budget for repairs, consider undervalued areas with recent market corrections, and target homes listed over 60 days for potential price reductions.