Navy Fellas Realty Group

Real Estate, Residential sales and purchase

Millennials and the Pursuit of Homeownership

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With rapid technological advancements and shifting societal norms, millennials find themselves facing a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to securing a mortgage. The journey toward homeownership for this generation is a multifaceted one, influenced by factors ranging from soaring student loan debt to evolving housing preferences.

The Student Loan Conundrum: One of the primary obstacles that millennials face when considering homeownership is the burden of student loan debt. With the rising cost of education, many find themselves struggling with substantial loan balances, which can impact their ability to qualify for a mortgage. Lenders typically assess debt-to-income ratios and high levels of student loan debt can tip the scales unfavorably. However, there are programs and strategies available to help manage this challenge, such as income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness options.

Changing Housing Preferences: Millennials are rewriting the script when it comes to what they desire in a home. Unlike previous generations, many millennials prioritize experiences over possessions and seek homes that align with their values and lifestyles. The demand for urban living, sustainable features, and smart home technology is on the rise. As a result, the real estate market is adapting to accommodate these shifting preferences, offering diverse options that cater to the unique tastes of millennial homebuyers.

Rising Housing Costs: The dream of homeownership is further complicated by the increasing cost of housing in many regions. Inflated real estate prices, coupled with the financial aftermath of the 2008 recession, have made it challenging for millennials to save for a down payment. Creative solutions, such as shared equity arrangements and government assistance programs, are emerging to address this issue and provide a helping hand to aspiring millennial homeowners.

The Gig Economy and Employment Trends: The gig economy, characterized by freelance work and short-term contracts, is a defining feature of the millennial workforce. While providing flexibility, it can also introduce uncertainty when it comes to mortgage eligibility. Traditional income verification methods may not capture the varied income streams of gig workers, making it essential for lenders to adapt their approaches. Likewise, millennials must be proactive in demonstrating their financial stability and reliability to lenders.

Technology as an Enabler: On the flip side, millennials are uniquely positioned to leverage technology to their advantage in the home buying process. From online mortgage comparison tools to virtual home tours, technology streamlines the journey to homeownership. Additionally, fintech innovations are emerging to address specific millennial challenges, such as crowdfunding platforms for down payments and digital mortgage application processes.

As millennials embark on the path to homeownership, they encounter a landscape shaped by a confluence of economic, social, and technological forces. While challenges like student loan debt and changing housing preferences loom large, opportunities abound through creative financing solutions, evolving real estate options, and the power of technology. Navigating the mortgage maze requires adaptability, financial literacy, and a proactive approach. By understanding and addressing these challenges head-on, millennials can turn the dream of homeownership into a tangible reality.

Why Millennial And Gen Z Buyers Are Struggling

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Why Millennial And Gen Z Buyers Are StrugglingRight now, it is difficult for people to purchase a house. Prices are very high, inventory remains at record low levels, and this is contributing to bidding wars. Even though everyone is having a hard time finding a house, Millennials and Gen Z buyers are struggling more than other people. What are some of the biggest hurdles that these buyers need to overcome? 

A Lack Of Familiarity

One of the first problems that Millennials and Gen Z buyers have to overcome is a tremendous lack of familiarity with the housing market. Many people that fall into this category are buying a house for the first time. They are not familiar with the process of buying a home, and they are far more likely to be overwhelmed by the process. Furthermore, they are often working with a smaller budget, which can make it even harder for them to compete in the current market.

Cash Offers

Because Millennials and Gen Z buyers are purchasing a house for the first time, they do not have the same budget. They often end up purchasing a smaller house. Unfortunately, these are the same houses that people who are downsizing are trying to buy as well. People who are trying to downsize can often make a cash offer for a smaller house, driving Millennials and Gen Z buyers right out of the market. Millennials and Gen Z buyers have a difficult time competing with cash offers.

Student Loan Debt

In addition, Millennials and Gen Z buyers are often carrying a tremendous amount of student loan debt. In some cases, the student loan debt they carry could be more than a mortgage. Banks and credit unions will hesitate to give young prospective buyers a mortgage if they already have a mortgage in the form of student loan debt.

Rising Interest Rates

Unfortunately, rising interest rates are also having an adverse impact on Millennials and Gen Z buyers. Because they are already working with a smaller budget, they will feel the sting of rising interest rates more than other people. This could make it even harder for them to purchase a home.

Looking To The Future

It is possible that more homes could come on the market in the near future. This could create more opportunities for all buyers, making it easier for Millennials and Gen Z buyers to avoid a bidding war and find a home. 

 

The Majority Of Millennials Plan On Buying A House In The Next Few Years

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The Majority Of Millennials Plan On Buying A House In The Next Few YearsDuring the past year, the housing market has been on fire. There are not a lot of houses for sale, many people are interested in moving, and there is a rising demand from the people who put off moving during the coronavirus pandemic. Furthermore, Millennial demand is picking up, which will only make the housing market even hotter. Recently, a survey found that approximately two-thirds of people who qualify for Generation Y are thinking about buying a home in the near future. Many of them have improving financial circumstances, and they are looking for a way to build wealth and settle down. 

A Majority Of Millennials Are Now Homeowners

Millennials make up approximately 43 percent of all new home purchases so far this year, which is up from 37 percent in 2021. In addition, Millennials represent approximately 20 percent of the United States population, and they represent the fastest-growing segment of homebuyers in the country. Furthermore, approximately 53 percent of all Millennials now own their own home. Many Millennials have become homeowners by purchasing homes that require updating. As a result, many Millennials are spending money renovating and upgrading their homes.

Has The Housing Market Hit Its Peak?

Even though a lot of Millennials have become homeowners, there are many who are still struggling to afford the cost of a house. With rising mortgage interest rates and home prices, it will only become more difficult for them to do so in the future. Some people are wondering if the housing market has peaked. If a price correction takes place, it could make it easier for Millennials who have not yet purchased a house to do so. Even though it is impossible to predict the future, some financial experts believe that the housing market is headed for a correction.

More Homes Are Needed

One of the reasons why housing prices are so high is that there are not a lot of new houses being built. A shortage of labor and materials has made it difficult for construction companies to keep up with demand. If construction companies are able to start building more houses, it could increase the supply of homes on the market, reducing prices overall.

 

Many Millennials Need More Space

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Many Millennials Need More SpaceThere are many Millennials who are looking for a home, and many of them are getting ready to trade up for more space. If you think you need more space, you may have more buying power than you realize. The coronavirus pandemic has led to a lot of changes, and you might be able to use the equity in your home to purchase a bigger house with more features.

Why Millennials Are Looking For Bigger Homes

There are a few reasons why many Millennials are looking for bigger homes. First, the coronavirus pandemic forced many people to work from home. This meant that a lot of people, including Millennials, needed a home office. In some cases, this means looking for a home with an extra room. 

In addition, many Millennials have had children during the past few years. This means they need one or two extra bedrooms, and probably another bathroom. This means moving into a home that has more space. 

Millennials Can Use The Equity In Their Homes

A lot of Millennials are still cash-strapped by student loans, but they might have more buying power than they realize. Due to the skyrocketing home prices during the past few years, Millennials may have built up a lot of equity in their homes. They can tap into this equity by selling their current houses for a significant profit. Then, they can roll this profit into a bigger house with a home office, extra bedrooms, more bathrooms, and a variety of extra features. 

How To Choose A New Home

Many Millennials are ready to use their newfound purchasing power to purchase a bigger house, but it is important to find the right one. Just because the house has more space doesn’t necessarily mean it is laid out properly. The bedrooms have to be the right size, particularly if their children are going to have a lot of toys. The home office also needs to be in a location where people will not be distracted while working. Finally, it might be beneficial to find a home office that can be used for more than one purpose. Some Millennials may be getting ready to go back to a physical office in the near future, and it would be beneficial to have a home office that can be used for different things. 

 

The Younger Generation is Looking To Buy Houses

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The Younger Generation is Looking To Buy HousesThe current housing demand is unparalleled and because of this demand, home prices are skyrocketing. Nonetheless, people continue to shop for homes. Low interest rates and high demand combined with supply chain issues are stunting the homebuilding industry, creating a perfect storm for an unprecedented housing market. In addition, there are many millennials who are looking for homes right now as well. Why is this the case?

Interest Rates Are At Record Lows

One of the biggest reasons why so many younger people are looking to buy a home is that low-interest rates make them more affordable. As a result, people are able to stretch their dollars farther. There is no question that buyers want to take advantage of low-interest rates; however, this is also driving up the price tag of homes. What some home buyers might save in interest they could have to pay extra in principle.

Young Homebuyers Want To Grow Their Wealth Through Homeownership

Owning a home is an investment, and young buyers see it that way as well. Right now, millennials and gen Z adults are looking to purchase homes for the first time. During the next year, these numbers are only going to increase. A lot of young adults realize that they may never see a market like this again; however, the lack of supply in the housing market continues to remain a challenge.

Inventory Is Historically Low

Now is a smart time to buy a home for everyone, including young adults; however, the challenge is finding one. There are many buyers who are looking to purchase homes right now and there are not that many houses for sale. Therefore, some buyers might eventually give up and wait for the market to cool down; however, it might require a spike in interest rates to make that happen. This is leaving many homebuyers confused about what to do next. That is why it is important to work with an experienced real estate professional.

Help Is Available

Buying a home is a major decision and it is important to get this right. That is why it is a smart idea to work with an experienced real estate professional who can help buyers make the right decisions.

Attracting First-Time Homebuyers With The Top Features

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Attracting First-Time Homebuyers With The Top FeaturesWith many young homebuyers entering the market, it is important for those looking to sell a home to think about the features that the younger generation is looking for. With numerous people between the ages of 18 and 34 getting ready to purchase their first home, what are they looking for? There are a few important factors to keep in mind. 

An Open Floor Plan Is A Must

Work-life balance is one of the most important priorities for the younger generation. Their home will have to cater to this. They plan on spending a tremendous amount of time with family members and friends and this means an open floor plan. An open floor plan refers to having a continuous kitchen, living room, and dining room that is not separated by walls. This will make it easier for them to socialize with the people in their homes. If the home does not have an open floor plan, it will not be attractive to first-time homebuyers. 

A Patio With A View

Another feature that a lot of young home buyers are looking for is a patio with a view. Just as they plan on spending time with family members and friends inside, they plan on doing the same thing outside. In order to make this happen, it will need to have a patio with a view. Even though some young homebuyers are going to be looking for a larger deck than others, a home without a deck is not going to be seen as attractive to them. 

A Space For A Vegetable Garden

Even though this might come as a surprise to some, the younger generation is very cognizant of their imprint on the environment. A lot of them are looking for ways to grow their own food in their backyard as a way to be more sustainable. If the home has a location for a vegetable garden, it is going to be more attractive. See if there is a way to set up a defined space for a garden.

First Time Homebuyers Are On The Rise

These are a few of the most important factors that first-time homebuyers look for. Homes with these features will be more attractive to the younger generation.

 

Some Millennials Are Finding Home Buying Overwhelming

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Some Millennials Are Finding Home Buying OverwhelmingMany millennials are reaching the age where they are thinking about buying homes for the first time. It turns out that many members of this generation are finding this process challenging. Even though the housing market is great for those looking to buy, surveys indicate that this generation also finds the process overwhelming.

Reports have been published showing that many millennials are planning to buy their first home in the next year, showing that owning property is still a strong part of the American dream. Furthermore, many millennials also know that this is a great time to buy. Why are millennials finding this process so challenging?

Student Loan Debt

One of the biggest reasons why millennials are having issues purchasing a home is student loan debt. When someone is looking for a home, any potential lender is going to take their existing debt into account. It is no secret that student loans are a major issue right now.

With numerous millennials saddled with student loan debt, this makes it hard to qualify for a mortgage. While other forms of debt are easier to pay back, student loan debt is not. Some millennials have student loan debt that looks like a mortgage. 

A Poor Understanding Of Costs

Even though millennials may look at their rent payments as a solid barometer for their mortgage payment, there are other costs that millennials need to consider. These include real estate taxes, HOA fees, homeowners’ insurance, and potential repairs. Therefore, they might need to reset their expectations.

Comparison Is A Dangerous Temptation

Finally, too many millennials are tempted by what they know. Many millennials end up moving back into their parents’ house after they finish school. The job market can be tough and they think this is a great way to save money. On the other hand, this also means they might end up looking for a house that is similar to their parents’. 

Many millennials have set the bar high for their first home. A property like their parents’ simply isn’t within the budget. An unwillingness to accept this makes it harder to find a home. On the other hand, there are affordable homes out there. Millennials simply need assistance to find them.

The Younger Real Estate Market: Move Over Millennials, Gen Z Is Moving Into Home Ownership

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The Younger Mortgage Market Generation ZAlthough the majority of the Generation Z population make $25,000 or less per year, they really have embraced the American Dream of home ownership. According to a recent survey by Zillow, 97 percent of Gen Z renters asked were confident they will be homeowners in the future, whereas only 55 percent of Millennials were

82 percent of Gen Zers who were renting identified home ownership as the most important component of the American Dream — more than Millennials, even though that group is presently the largest segment of homebuyers, according to data from the National Association of Realtors.

So Who Exactly Are Generation Z?

While precise definitions vary, Generation Z are generally known as people born from the late 1990s to early 2000, and they are just beginning to come of age in the housing market. Many currently are renters, but they do not appear content to stay renting for long.  

That could be due to seeing rental prices skyrocketing across the country, or less than ideal rental situations may be a factor — nearly half are living in spaces less than 1,000 square feet, and 82 percent of those Gen Zers share rent with another person, according to MarketWatch.

This Generation Is Bigger Than The Millennials

The Generation Z crowd outnumbers their older Millennial peers by about one million, positioning them to be a force driving the home buying and building market soon. While they are experiencing one of the most competitive housing markets in recent history, that doesn’t seem to phase Gen Zers.

More than 77 percent say they would forgo business ownership in favor of home ownership, and more than 50 percent would be willing to give up social media networking for a year to obtain their dream home, according to a recent Time Magazine survey.

Three in five teens have already begun saving toward their dream home, so while most Gen Zers hope to be homeowners by the age of 28, (three years lower than the national average) they are getting a good start toward meeting that goal. Due to their savvy tech skills and inherent digital nature, Gen Zers are poised to buy homes more efficiently and faster than previous generations of renters.

When navigating the rental market, 33 percent of Gen Z renters are able to find new accommodations in a month or less, probably because they submit more applications per search, at approximately 3.1 applications per property search versus 2.4 for Gen Xers and 2.2 for Baby Boomers, according to a recent Zillow report.

 

3 Great Homebuying Tools Millenials Have Available to Them Right Now

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Millennials Have Great Home Buying Tools AvailableThe economy seems to be heating up rapidly, but home loan interest rates are still at historically low levels. Real estate values have climbed a bit across the country, but low interest rates and affordable prices makes for an excellent opportunity for new homeowners to get into their first home before it rates and prices rise higher.

According to the recent studies, there were 4 consecutive quarters of homeownership growth where new homeowners outpaced new renters.  The solid economic fundamentals are likely responsible for creating this excellent home buying environment.

Over the past year, Millennials seem to be on board and helping to drive the upward trend. They represent the next generation of homebuyers, and as this group is getting older, they are getting married more frequently. They are also starting families which tend to encourage the idea of home ownership. In fact, a recent analysis showed that home ownership is 30% higher among married couples than non-married couples.

Specifically, low unemployment numbers and a progressively aging pool of Millennials with a desire for home ownership appear to be driving this trend. US homeownership actually increased over 2017 to an unadjusted rate of 64.2%, which was a significant uptick from the previous year at 63.7%.

Here are a few very helpful tools are still available for new buyers:

  • Any homebuyer with military status can take advantage of Veterans Administration loans with far better rates than the normal market, making mortgage payments cheaper.
  • Those buying in rural areas can take advantage of rural homebuyer’s assistance programs provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help people move to small towns and similar communities.
  • The Housing and Urban Development Agency provides HUD loans that make it very affordable for those with limited income to purchase HUD-owned homes as first-time buyers and get into real estate.

Of course, the big response from Millenials is how do I earn more to even get started. Like Generation X folks before them, Millenials can’t wait for a job to be made available on a platter.

While looking, many smart folks have started their own businesses online or in their local marketplace. If a current job is enough to cover current bills, a second income can be entirely dedicated to saving, which can generate thousands of dollars quickly.

Even a part-time second job that creates $1,000 a month produces $12,000 a year and in two years enough for a sizable down payment. 

If you have questions about buying your next home, give us a call. We’d be happy to help!