PORTSMOUTH, Va. — A growing number of Americans are entering the housing market for the first time; 21% of home purchases this year are from first-time buyers, according to the National Association of Realtors.

But as the cost of living climbs, policymakers and lenders are exploring creative ways to help more buyers achieve homeownership.

A recent idea has resurfaced on the national stage: a 50-year mortgage. The concept has drawn renewed attention after former President Donald Trump highlighted it as a potential solution to the housing affordability crisis.

Local families feel the pressure

For many families in Portsmouth, the dream of homeownership comes with difficult decisions and steep trade-offs.

Preston and Zsulaine Bain Ramirez purchased their Portsmouth home for $350,000, fin

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