🏠 Dream Deferred? Why Two-Thirds of Gen Z Think They’ll Never Own a Home

Neil Caron
Aug 18
2 min read

August 18, 2025 | Gen Z & Housing | Presented by ReadySetLoan™️

In a revealing new survey from Clever Offers, nearly two-thirds of Gen Z (ages 18–28) believe they’ll never own a home. Let that sink in. This isn’t a group that lacks ambition—90% still want to own someday—but overwhelming affordability concerns are clouding their confidence. And for Connecticut's next generation of buyers, this growing doubt could shape the future of our housing market.

🚫 From the American Dream to an Unreachable Fantasy

Here's how Gen Z's homeownership outlook stacks up:

62% say they’ll never be able to afford a home
21% believe World War III is more likely than homeownership
18% think homelessness is more likely
17% believe they’re more likely to win the lottery
11% think getting struck by lightning is a more realistic outcome

Let’s be honest: these aren’t just quirky statistics—they’re red flags.

🔨 Compromise or Crisis?

With sky-high prices, low inventory, and rising interest rates, Gen Z buyers are willing to lower their standards just to get a foot in the door:

🐽 RSL Piggy Points:

58% would buy a home without heat or A/C
47% would accept a home with asbestos
46% would consider homes with foundation issues or water damage
40% would live in homes with pest problems
56% would accept mortgage rates over 7%
24% would still proceed even over 10%

This isn’t just flexibility—it’s desperation.

💸 Affordability: Still Public Enemy #1

When asked what’s stopping them, Gen Z gave a consistent answer: money.

82% cited home affordability as the main barrier (up from 57% last year)
75% said the rising cost of living makes it impossible to save
34% have more debt than savings
46% struggle to pay rent monthly
36% would consider marrying just to afford a home
30% have considered squatting or living in a vehicle

🧠 RSL Perspective

At ReadySetLoan™️, we don’t just see statistics—we see stories. This generation has the drive, the work ethic, and the vision—but they're navigating a system that feels rigged against them. The good news? Education, strategy, and the right programs can make a huge difference.

“The Connecticut housing market isn’t out of reach—it just takes the right game plan. We’re seeing more Gen Z buyers using renovation loans, co-borrowing creatively, and finding success in less saturated towns.”— Neil Caron, Area Sales Manager, CMG Mortgage

🎯 So, What’s the Move?

For Gen Z—and anyone else watching these numbers with wide eyes—the key is not to retreat, but to reframe. The road to homeownership may look different than it did for past generations, but it’s still a road worth walking. With trusted resources, creative financing tools, and local guidance, you can build a path that works for you.

🏁 Let ReadySetLoan™️ be your educational partner on that journey.

Learn more, ask questions, and get equipped for the market—because homeownership isn’t a myth.

It’s a mission. Explore your options today at ReadySetLoan™️.