What is Ryan Serhant's view on the American Dream of homeownership?

Real estate CEO Ryan Serhant suggests that homeownership might be a slogan created by banks rather than the true American Dream.

What are the current challenges for first-time homebuyers?

First-time homebuyers face challenges due to surging home prices, high mortgage rates, and a shortage of affordable inventory, leading to a record average age of 40 in 2025.

What historical factors influenced the American Dream of homeownership?

The concept of the American Dream of homeownership was influenced by New Deal solutions during the Great Depression and later reinforced by FHA policies and the GI Bill.

Home / Business and Economy / Is the American Dream of Homeownership Dead?

Is the American Dream of Homeownership Dead?

27 Jan

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Summary

Real estate CEO claims homeownership is a bank slogan.
Home prices surged over 40% since pandemic began.
Average first-time home buyer age reached a record 40 in 2025.

Is the American Dream of Homeownership Dead?

Real estate executive Ryan Serhant has questioned the traditional notion of homeownership as the quintessential American Dream, suggesting it may have originated as a bank marketing tactic. His perspective emerges as the U.S. housing market presents significant challenges.

Home prices have seen a dramatic increase, exceeding 40% since the pandemic began. Coupled with persistently high mortgage rates, this has made purchasing a home difficult. The average age of a first-time home buyer reached a record 40 in 2025, highlighting generational struggles.

The historical context reveals that while mortgages have existed since early America, modern systems evolved from federal government initiatives during the Great Depression. Programs like those established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt aimed to provide relief and stabilize the housing market.