(NewsNation) — Housing costs are so high that some buyers are willing to risk their personal safety to afford a home.

A recent Redfin survey found that roughly 1 in 5 (22%) homebuyers would be willing to trade safety for affordability, while more than a quarter (27%) said they'd compromise by giving up a low-crime area.

The findings underscore the affordability strain many are feeling, with home prices at record highs and elevated mortgage rates adding to the burden.

The typical U.S. home-sale price has increased over 40% since before the pandemic, and mortgage rates are more than double what they were just four years ago. While some markets have started to tip in favor of buyers, the dream of homeownership remains out of reach for millions.

"Prices are starting to come down, but buyer

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