Recent headlines exclaimed the homeownership rate, as reported by the Census Bureau, rose again in the second quarter of 2017. What didn’t get much attention in the reports is that the millennial homebuyers, American households under the age of 35, have increased a full percentage point from last quarter’s 34.3% to 35.3%. Millennia homebuyers have the highest increase of any age group.
This came as a surprise to some considering Millennials have come to be known as the “renter” generation. However, a new study by First American, 6 Trends Poised to Reshape Homeownership Demand, revealed reasons why millennials homeownership numbers will continue to increase.
Millennials are the most educated generation in the U.S.
Why does that matter? First American explains:
“Our model shows that, all other factors being equal, the likelihood of homeownership increases by 3 percent for those that earn a bachelor’s degree over those with a high school degree. The likelihood of homeownership jumps another 3 percent for those that earn a graduate degree.”
The more educated, the better the likelihood for homeownership. And, as we mentioned: Millennials are the most educated generation in the U.S.
Homes & marriage go together
Marriage is a key determinate in homeownership. According to an analysis by First American, the homeownership rate is 30% higher among married couples compared to non-married households.
Millennials have put off marriage in the pursuit of higher education. As this group ages, more and more will marry and purchase a home.
Parents buy houses
According to the study:
“The homeownership rate is 1.7% higher for households with one or two children compared to households with no children, and it is 5.4 percent higher for households with three or more children.”
The report goes on to say that as Millennials grow older there may be an increase in not just marriage but also in married couples with children. That will probably also create a “corresponding” increase in homeownership demand.
Wages and the economy
The study goes on to explain that recent gains in income growth and a strengthening economy will also help all generations (including Millennials) be more willing and able to purchase a new home.
What does this mean? Simply put, realtors and others in the real estate industry need to pay more attention to millennial homebuyers and their home buying needs. Understand millennial homeownership, what they’re looking for, and how they operate in the marketplace. Millennial homebuyers are the future of real estate and it’s high time we recognize that!
Contact the Eusea Team in Fort Collins, Colorado for more information working with this demographic and how millennial homebuyers are shaping our industry.