In this Keep It Simple Podcast episode, host Joey Badinger joins advisors Adam Morse and Tommy Williams at AssetBuilder’s Plano HQ to unpack what’s really going on in today’s housing market—and how families can work together to help Gen Z and Millennials become homeowners.

They trace the arc from early 20th-century mortgages to post-WWII suburbia, the 1970s rate shock, 2000s subprime bubble, post-COVID surge, and today’s challenging mix of higher rates, compressed affordability, insurance spikes, student debt, and constrained supply.

Housing history in a hurry: From 5-year loans and big down payments to the 30-year mortgage, GI Bill suburbs, the 1970s rate peak, the subprime crisis, and COVID-era price jumps.

Why affordability is strained now: Home-price-to-income ratios, higher mortgage rates vs. locked-in low-rate owners, insurance costs, and student debt.

Supply vs. demand realities: Aging-in-place, building restrictions, private investors in starter homes, and why listings can rise even as affordability falls.

Programs that help first-time buyers: Where to look for down-payment assistance, reduced-rate programs (e.g., HomeReady, Home Possible), and local buyer education courses.

Family strategies that work: How grandparents/parents can gift earlier, reframe big-ticket events (e.g., weddings) vs. down payments, and coach smart savings habits.

Rates matter—but so does the price base. A 6–7% mortgage is tough; the bigger problem is prices outpacing wages.

Locked-in effect: Owners with 2–3% mortgages aren’t moving—tightening the starter-home pipeline.

Costs beyond the mortgage: Insurance premiums and maintenance have significantly outpaced wages.

Education pays: City/county first-time buyer classes can prevent costly surprises (inspections, foundation/piping, etc.).

Timing gifts can change trajectories: Front-loading support (within a plan) can beat waiting for inheritances.

00:00 – Disclaimer & intro

Keywords: housing market 2025, first-time homebuyer tips, home affordability, mortgage rates vs prices, down payment assistance, HomeReady, Home Possible, starter homes shortage, budgeting for a house, Gen Z home buying.

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