71% of Aspiring Homeowners Are Delaying Kids, Career Moves, and Other Major Life Decisions Until They Buy a Home

Core Insights - The Coldwell Banker 2025 American Dream Report reveals that 71% of aspiring homeowners are delaying major life decisions until they can afford to buy a home, indicating a significant impact on family life and the economy [1][3]. Homeownership Trends - Homeownership remains central to the American Dream, with 56% of Americans stating it represents their personal vision of the American Dream, surpassing other milestones like marriage and career success [7]. - Among aspiring homeowners, 84% of Gen Z (ages 18-28) are postponing life decisions, with 29% delaying having children until they can afford a home [2][6]. Financial Perspectives - A majority of Americans (65%) believe that homeownership is a smarter long-term financial decision compared to renting, and 48% view real estate as a better wealth-building tool than the stock market [5]. - Nearly two-thirds (63%) of non-homeowners express a desire to purchase a home within the next five years, with 70% of Gen Z and 72% of Millennials sharing this sentiment [9]. Creative Solutions for Affordability - Many Americans are making concessions to navigate housing affordability, with 42% willing to take on side jobs and 35% considering moving to more affordable areas [5][13]. - 36% of individuals have considered co-buying with family to achieve homeownership, highlighting a trend towards collaborative purchasing [13].