How Today’s Buyers Are Getting Creative to Afford a Home

Overwhelmed by high home prices, interest rates, or the feeling that you’re “just not ready” to be a homeowner yet? You’re not alone. According to the 2025 NextGen Homebuyer Report , nearly 60% of Gen Z and Millennial buyers believe homeownership is attainable, but only 19% think now is a good time to buy. So what are they doing instead? They’re getting creative. Here are the four most popular alternative buying strategies young buyers are using to make homeownership work in 2025, plus how to know if one might be right for you. 1. Buying a Fixer-Upper Used by: 42% of buyers surveyed Good for: Handy buyers who want more space for less money Not great for: Those who need move-in-ready or have limited renovation budgets Buying a home that needs a little love can be one of the smartest ways to get into a neighborhood you otherwise couldn’t afford. In many markets, fixer-uppers sell for 10–30% below comparable move-in-ready homes. Pros: Lower upfront cost Oppor...