Expectations are a lot higher now. Families were quite happy with a 2 bedder with kids sharing. Now everybody wants 4 bedrooms and a theatre. Fine, but you have to expect to pay more. 1/4 acre blocks disappeared as population density increased. Can't expect that now. Cities have expanded massively. The affordable housing was on the outskirts. It still is but those outskirts are a lot further from the CBD.
One rule still applies, figure out what you can afford and look for a house in that range. At least interest rates shouldn't hit 17% again.
