As the US economy goes into recession Americans are finding it's difficult to buy a house. Real estate agents are having a tough time.

John Jameson is the president of a consulting firm in Washington.

He can earn more than 700-thousand US dollars a year.

Thirteen years ago, John bought a villa in Washington for 250-thousand dollars.

But he moved out after he and his wife divorced.

Since then, he has been living with his daughter in a rented apartment.

John now wants a change.

This villa costs nearly 2.5 million dollars.

It's merely three blocks away from his office.

John Jameson, Home Buyer, said, "It's located around Capitol Hill. Its surroundings are the best in Washington ... "

John decides to buy the villa and apply for a mortgage from the bank.

John Jameson, Home Buyer, said, "My income is good. I have a lot of deposits and good credit. I thought they would say there's no problem ..."

But it turns out to be opposite.

John Jameson, Home Buyer, said, " ... see very high-level managers at the bank ... higher down payment than half a year ago ... "

A higher down payment is not a big deal for John.

But he has to wait longer for the mortgage approval.

And that's what really makes him anxious.

The banks have their own explanation for raising the threshold.