How To Make Your Dream a Reality
If you are a member of a younger generation, like Gen Z, you may be asking the question will I ever be able to buy a home? And chances are, you’re worried that’s not going to be in the cards with inflation, rising home prices, mortgage rates, and more seemingly stacked against you.
While there’s no arguing this housing market is challenging for first time homebuyers, it is still achievable, especially if you have professionals on your side.
Here are some helpful tips you may get from a pro.
1. Explore Your Options for a Down Payment
If a down payment is your #1 hurdle, you may have options to give your savings a boost. There are over 2,000 down payment assistance programs designed to make homeownership more achievable. And, that’s not the only place you may be able to get a helping hand. While it may not be an option for everyone, 49% of Gen Z homebuyers got money from loved ones that they used toward a down payment, according to LendingTree.
And chances are you won’t need to put 20% down (unless specified by your loan type or lender). So be sure to work with a trusted mortgage professional to explore your options, find out how much you will really need, and learn about any guidelines on getting a gift from loved ones.
2. Live with Loved Ones To Boost Your Savings
Another thing a number of Gen Z buyers are doing is ditching their rental and moving back in with friends or family. This can help cut down our housing costs so you can build your savings a whole lot faster.
3. Cast a Broad Net for Your Search
When you’ve saved up enough, here’s how a pro will help you approach your search. Since the supply of homes for sale is still low and affordability is tight, they will give you strategies and avenues you may not have considered to open up your pool of options.
For example, it’s usually more affordable if you consider a rural or suburban area versus an urban one. So, while the city may be livelier and more energetic, the cost of living may be reason enough to look at something further out. And if you consider smaller homes and condos or townhouses, you’ll give yourself even more ways to break into the market.
4. Take a Close Look at Your Wants and Needs
And lastly, I can help you really think about your must have’s and nice to have’s. Remember, your first home doesn’t have to be your forever home. You just need to get your foot in the door to start building equity. If you want to buy, you may find making some compromises is worth it.
I will help you prioritize your list of home features and find houses that can deliver on the top ones. And I will be able to explain how equity can benefit you in the long run and make it possible to move into that dream home down the line.
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