If you’ve been dreaming about buying a home—but feel like today’s prices, high interest rates, or your current life stage are holding you back—you’re not alone.

In fact, a recent 2025 NextGen Homebuyer Report found that while nearly 60% of Gen Z and Millennial buyers believe owning a home is within reach, only 19% think now’s the right time to buy.

So what are hopeful buyers doing instead?

They’re getting creative—and finding new ways to make homeownership work on their own terms.

Whether you’re here in Brevard County or thinking of relocating, there are smart strategies you can explore to turn “maybe someday” into “we’re doing this.”

Let’s take a look at four real-world alternatives younger buyers are using to get into the market right now—plus how to tell if one might be a good fit for you.

1. Buying a Fixer-Upper

Used by: 42% of buyers surveyed
Great for: Handy buyers who aren’t afraid of a little sweat equity
Less ideal for: Anyone who needs move-in ready or has a tight reno budget

Imagine walking into a home that you helped shape—painted in your favorite tones, with the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of. Fixer-uppers can be a powerful way to break into a neighborhood you love, especially here in areas like Melbourne, Palm Bay, or Cocoa where updated homes are in high demand.

💡Pros:

• Lower purchase price

• Build equity quickly through upgrades

• Customize the space to fit your style

⚠️Considerations:

• Renovations take time, money, and patience

• Permits and inspections can be tricky

• Not all loans allow for fixer-uppers—but renovation loans like FHA 203(k) or HomeStyle® loans can help

➡️ Thinking about this route? Ask me about homes in Brevard that would qualify for renovation loans—it’s one of my favorite ways to help buyers maximize value.

2. Co-Buying With Friends or Family

Considered by: 21% overall, but 32% of Gen Z
Best for: Buyers with strong trust and shared financial goals
Not great for: Partnerships without clear expectations or exit plans

Teamwork makes the dream work—and more young buyers are proving that by purchasing homes with siblings, friends, or even co-workers. It’s a smart way to double your buying power and split costs.

💡Pros:

• Share down payments, utilities, and monthly expenses

• Increase your budget and access better locations

• Built-in support system

⚠️Considerations:

• You must have a written agreement—ideally drafted by a real estate attorney

• Financial changes or disagreements can impact your shared investment

• Exit plans should be set from the start

➡️ I can walk you through the co-buying process and connect you with a trusted attorney here in Brevard who specializes in these kinds of agreements.

3. House Hacking (a.k.a. Renting Out Part of Your Home)

Used by: Nearly 1 in 5 buyers (18.6%)
Works well for: Buyers open to tenants or short-term rentals
Not ideal for: Buyers who prefer full privacy or minimal responsibility

Picture this: owning your first home and having someone else help pay your mortgage. That’s house hacking. Think: renting out a guest suite, a garage apartment, or even a room on Airbnb.

💡Pros:

• Generates passive income

• Lowers or offsets your monthly mortgage

• Turns your home into a long-term investment

⚠️Considerations:

• Zoning laws and HOA rules matter—especially in cities like Melbourne and Satellite Beach

• You’ll need landlord insurance and possibly a business license

• You’ll have responsibilities (and maybe roommates)

➡️ If this strategy sounds like a fit, I can show you properties with ADUs or layouts perfect for renting in Brevard County—and walk you through the local regulations.

4. Relocating to a More Affordable Area

Considered by: 47% of buyers
Ideal for: Remote workers, flexible families, or those priced out of urban markets
Not ideal for: Buyers tied to specific job locations or school zones

This is a big one, especially with the rise in remote work. Many buyers are choosing to move just a little farther out to gain more space, lower taxes, and more value for their dollar. Areas like Titusville, Port St. John, or even Palm Bay's western edges are becoming go-to spots.

💡Pros:

• More home for your budget

• Lower cost of living

• Potential for long-term appreciation in up-and-coming neighborhoods

⚠️Considerations:

• You may have a longer commute

• Fewer amenities depending on location

• You’ll want a local agent who knows the area inside and out (hi! 👋)

➡️ Want to explore more affordable areas within Brevard that still offer great quality of life? I’d love to show you the hidden gems.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need a “Perfect” Plan—Just the Right One for You

Here’s the truth: the path to owning a home in 2025 isn’t a straight line. It’s more like a winding road—and that’s okay.

Whether you’re teaming up with a friend, rolling up your sleeves on a fixer-upper, or considering a fresh start in a new zip code, there is a way forward. You just need the right tools, the right strategy, and the right guide.

👋 Let’s talk about what’s possible for you. I’m here to help you explore your options, crunch the numbers, and move forward with confidence—whenever you're ready.

Want to chat through your ideas? Send me a message or give me a call. No pressure—just real talk and helpful advice from someone who knows Brevard County inside and out.

Source: NextGen Homebuyer Report