Home prices have soared in recent years in the Huntsville metro, and up until recently, homes have been flying off the market several thousand dollars above the asking price.

But Huntsville is still among the best places in the country for people buying a home for the first time, according to one national ranking.

SmartAsset ranks Huntsville the seventh best market out of 185 metro areas for first time homebuyers.

“With inventory increasing in the $250-$300K price range, and interest rates settling, the market is headed toward more diverse price points for new buyers to enter the market,” Huntsville Area Association of Realtors President Chris Hulser said in reaction to the ranking.

Ben Wales, with Redstone Family Realty, added “it’s the best climate in years” in the Huntsville market.