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The influence of parental homeownership on an individual’s likelihood of owning a home themselves cannot be overstated, according to housing experts.
Susan M. Wachter, a professor at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, emphasized this connection, stating, “If your parents are homeowners, you’re more likely to be a homeowner.” This trend is driven by various factors, including direct financial assistance from parents for down payments, the creation of multigenerational households to facilitate savings, and the transfer of knowledge about homeownership.
Dowell Myers, a professor at the University of Southern California, highlighted the broader phenomenon of intergenerational transmission of status, where factors like parental education and wealth significantly influence the outcomes for their children.
Financial support from parents for down payments is a common practice among first-time homebuyers. Data from the National Association of Realtors revealed that 23% of first-time buyers used gifts or loans from friends or family for their down payments. Skylar Olsen, Zillow’s chief economist, noted that 40% of first-time homebuyers relied on financial assistance from their parents, indicating the importance of what she termed “the bank of mom and dad.”
Intergenerational wealth, often linked to homeownership, plays a crucial role in facilitating homeownership among young adults. Wachter emphasized that parental homeownership increases the likelihood of parents assisting with down payments for their children.
The Urban Institute’s 2018 report highlighted the correlation between parental homeownership and a young adult’s likelihood of owning a home, particularly in relation to household income. Myers noted that having homeowner parents provides an advantage, akin to a “5 percentage point bonus,” as parents can offer valuable guidance and encouragement.
However, the lack of affordable housing options has led to a significant number of young adults, particularly Gen Zers, residing with their parents. This trend underscores the challenges faced by those whose parents are not homeowners, as they may lack access to financial support and valuable homeownership knowledge.
Cultural factors also play a role in shaping individuals’ attitudes toward homeownership. Myers emphasized that upbringing influences an individual’s motivation to achieve homeownership, especially if they grew up in a household with homeowner parents.
In conclusion, parental homeownership serves as a crucial determinant in shaping generational home buying trends, with financial assistance, knowledge transfer, and cultural influences all playing significant roles in guiding young adults toward homeownership.