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You know a generation is growing up when its members start buying property in the suburbs. A new study shows that millennial home buyers represent the largest share of prospective owners in the U.S. right now. You would think the pandemic pushed those on the fence to jump into looking for the perfect place, but the figures show that younger buyers have been steadily increasing for the past few years in certain parts of the country. The report details the top counties receiving the most mortgage applications from first-time buyers—and we found a few listings worth taking a longer look.
Hudson County, New Jersey
Just across the river from Manhattan, Hudson County is full of semi-urban alternatives like Weehawken and Hoboken. It’s accessible by the PATH train or ferry for people going to an office—remember offices?—and allows more space at a lower cost. Set along the cliffs of the Palisades, this listing in downtown Jersey City has beautiful molding, new tile, and stainless steel appliances for half the price of a comparable West Village spot.
Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
Millennials searching for their starter home don’t need to give up city life to do so. Rather than spending a ton on rent in Chicago, consider shifting gears and relocating to a smaller metro area: nearby Milwaukee. In Downer Woods, an IRL dollhouse is currently on the market for $450,000 with tons of original millwork and gorgeous leaded windows.
Clayton County, Georgia
Drive a few miles south of Atlanta and you cross into Clayton County. For anyone trying to bail on a cramped apartment, there’s a fixer-upper in Rex that’s only 25 minutes to the downtown area. It’s got three bedrooms, but we bet you’ll spend most of your time in front of the stone fireplace framed with windows.
Baltimore County, Maryland
Baltimore County has tons of inventory available, including this charming Colonial. It will require some renovating before moving in, but you’ll be done just in time to use the pool—and screened-in pool house—for the summer.
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