Generation X Homeownership Rebounds After Recession

Many members of Generation X realized their homebuying dreams in the late 90s and 2000s, at the peak of the housing bubble. The recession ravaged them. Sinking home values and job losses stuck Gen Xers with underwater homes.

They’re now making a comeback. Realtor.com reports that a stronger economy and rising house values has lifted Generation X homeowners. According to a national survey, adults between 37 and 51 years old purchased 28 percent of properties between July 2015 and June 2016, up from 26 percent during the previous 12-month period.

While Millennials are buying a larger share of homes than other generations, Gen Xers make the most money (median $106,600 a year per) and are the largest generation with the kids still living at home.

“Now, they’re actually in their prime earning years,” says Jonathan Smoke, the chief economist of Realtor.com. “And they’re also far more likely to have families. It makes complete sense that they’re coming back.”

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