News Summary
Recent research reveals a significant shift in homeownership attitudes among young adults in the United States. While 95% of respondents aged 18-44 aspire to own homes, many believe that now is not a good time to buy due to high living costs and economic uncertainties. The survey highlights financial literacy gaps and a decline in trust towards traditional financial professionals. Alternative paths such as co-buying and investing in fixer-upper properties are being explored, alongside a growing reliance on digital media for information. This evolving landscape signifies the need for tailored education and transparent communication in the industry.
New Insights on Gen Z and Millennials’ Changing Attitudes Toward Homeownership
New survey findings reveal significant shifts in how young adults in the United States view the prospect of buying a home. Despite a strong desire for homeownership, most respondents aged 18-44 believe now is not an ideal time to purchase, signaling a transformation in traditional homebuying attitudes and strategies.
High Desire Amid Stagnant Confidence
The survey indicates that 95% of aspiring homebuyers within the 18-44 age range continue to prioritize owning a home. However, a large majority perceive current market conditions as unfavorable, citing high costs and economic uncertainty as key barriers. About 70% of respondents attribute their hesitation to high living expenses. Additionally, 35% feel that owning a home seems more like an unrealistic dream than an achievable goal.
Financial Education and Trust in Professionals
Access to financial education remains limited for young buyers. Nearly 53% report they did not receive personal finance instruction during school; 29% had only limited or optional coursework. Many young adults are turning to online platforms to improve financial literacy. Of them, 66% engage with YouTube for information, and 43% use AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT for homebuying advice.
The report highlights a decline in trust towards traditional financial and real estate professionals. Trust in loan officers has fallen to 19.5%, while only 33% of respondents trust real estate agents. This diminished confidence is partly rooted in the financial hardships experienced during the Great Recession, which led many young adults to question the stability and reliability of conventional institutions.
Barriers and Alternative Strategies
Many prospective buyers perceive homeownership as financially out of reach. Nearly 70% cite high costs as a barrier. Despite misconceptions about the necessity of large down payments, 70% still believe a 10% to 20% down payment
Young buyers are exploring nontraditional paths to ownership, including co-buying (32%), renting out parts of their homes (23%), and investing in fixer-uppers (42%). These strategies reflect a greater willingness among Gen Z compared to Millennials to adopt alternative approaches that prioritize affordability and community engagement.
Role of Online and Community Resources
The evolving landscape of homebuying education shows that online content plays a vital role. Apart from YouTube, 42% of respondents participate in webinars, and 35% listen to real estate or financial podcasts for guidance. Many young buyers also utilize AI tools for personalized advice, reinforcing the importance of digital platforms in the modern real estate environment.
Financial Stress and Confidence Levels
Over two-thirds of respondents experience financial stress, with 63% citing high living expenses as a primary source. Confidence in their own financial knowledge remains modest, with only 43% feeling confident. Women tend to be less confident (38%) compared to men (47%). This financial insecurity discourages many from pursuing homeownership despite their aspirations.
Opportunities and Industry Recommendations
The report underscores the need for financial professionals to rebuild trust by emphasizing transparency, personalized communication, and a commitment to buyers’ financial health. Engaging with consumers through online platforms and local communities is seen as essential in providing education and support.
While opportunities for partnerships between loan officers and real estate agents grow, current gaps in agent knowledge about mortgage products and affordability programs hinder effective assistance. Addressing these gaps can better equip professionals to serve young buyers and help shift perceptions.
Conclusion: A Transforming Market
The survey’s findings highlight a transformative shift in the real estate landscape, driven by young buyers prioritizing affordability, community, and nontraditional paths. As financial challenges persist, the industry is encouraged to adapt its educational efforts, restore trust, and foster a supportive environment for first-time homebuyers.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- HousingWire: Younger Homebuyers – Gen Z & Millennials Turn to Social Media & AI
- Real Estate News: RE/MAX Report on Gen Z & Millennials
- Fortune: Gen Z Homeowners and Renovation Trends
- Daily Camera: Redefining Home Preferences
- The Daily Upside: Advisors Reaching Gen Z
- Wikipedia: Home Ownership in the United States
- Google Search: Youth Homeownership Trends
- Google Scholar: Homeownership Financial Education Young Adults
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Home Ownership
- Google News: Homeownership Trends Gen Z Millennials
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
