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Student Loans Factor In Lower Home Ownership Rates
The Impact of Student Loans
It’s not a secret that crippling student loan debt keeps many Millennials from buying a home. But according to new data, Millennials with student loan debt aren’t just less likely to own a home. When they do buy? They face more expensive mortgage loans and lower home values, too.
Buying A Home With Student Loan Debt
The homeownership rates among Millennials with student loans is just 34%, two percentage points lower than those without loans.
Of those with student loans who do own a home, they have higher mortgage balances, and lower home values. Homeowners with student loan debts have properties valued 5% lower than those without it.
The analysis also showed that Millennials with student loan debt have a lower net worth than those without student loans. They also have nearly $19,000 less saved for retirement and half as much money in the bank.
It’s Not Impossible
It’s not all bad news for aspiring Millennial homeowners, though. There are lots of ways this cohort can get ahead on those loans and open the door to better financial health.
If you can make extra payments, you can get out of debt faster and save money on interest. Create a budget to see if you can spare any extra cash each month. Look for areas where you can cut down on spending. Some people even take drastic steps, such as downsizing their apartment or selling their car, to get rid of debt as fast as possible.
Also, maybe taking on a side hustle will also help, asking for a raise or considering a career that qualifies for student loan forgiveness, such as teaching or another form of public service. Refinancing can also help.
Some borrowers could benefit from refinancing their student loans. If you have decent credit and a steady income, or can apply with a cosigner who does, you could qualify for a lower interest rate than what you have now, as well as choose new repayment terms. As a result, refinancing could save you money on interest and help you pay off your student loans ahead of schedule.
Millennials now make up the largest share of homebuyers, so hope isn’t lost for these debt-saddled Americans. Shop around and see what mortgage rates you qualify for today.
*This article does not represent legal interpretation or advice. This is not a commitment to make a loan. Loans are subject to borrower qualifications, including income, property evaluation, sufficient equity in the home to meet LTV requirements, and final credit approval. Approvals are subject to underwriting guidelines, interest rates, and program guidelines, and are subject to change without notice based on applicant’s eligibility and market conditions. Refinancing an existing loan may result in total finance charges being higher over life of loan. Reduction in payments may reflect longer loan term. Terms of the loan may be subject to payment of points and fees by the applicant. Seattle Mortgage Brokers, LLC NMLS: LO# 305371 MB# 761615
