Forget flatting. Young Aussies are staying home — and buying real estate anyway. Photo by RDNE Stock project
A growing number of first-home buyers are skipping the rental market and jumping straight into home ownership — all while still living under their parents’ roof.
It might seem counterintuitive, but for young Australians priced out of the property market, staying home longer and buying before they move out is fast becoming the smartest play in town.
According to property experts, this trend is more than just a workaround — it’s a sign of the times. With rising living costs and high interest rates biting hard, more buyers are turning to the Bank of Mum and Dad for support. In fact, we covered this rising reliance in New Zealand in our article: 👉 “The Bank of Mum and Dad is now a lifeline for first-home buyers”
📈 Buying While Living At Home: The Stats & Strategy
The benefits of buying early while living at home include:
✅ Reduced overheads: No rent means savings grow faster
✅ Rental income: Some buyers rent out their property from day one
✅ Equity building: Real estate values often increase while they live rent-free at home
✅ Parent power: Family assistance with deposits and guarantees is making this possible
It’s a creative twist on the traditional homeownership pathway — and it’s catching on.
🧑💼 What the Experts Say
Finance and real estate commentators say this trend is driven by necessity, not luxury. Property prices continue to outpace wage growth, leaving many young people no choice but to think outside the box.
💬 “The modern-day first-home buyer isn’t just saving — they’re strategising. And if staying home a bit longer helps secure a foothold on the property ladder, it’s a smart move,” says property analyst Olivia Carter.
🧮 Can It Really Work?
Yes — if the numbers stack up. Mortgage brokers warn that while it’s a good strategy, buyers need to ensure their investment property is cash flow positive, and they can handle rates, insurance, and maintenance costs — even while living at home.
This pathway also isn’t for everyone. It often requires:
💸 Family help with the deposit
📑 Pre-approval and smart lending advice
🏡 Buying in affordable suburbs, often outside capital cities
💬 Final Word: Creative Buyers, Shifting Trends
Young Aussies are proving that where there’s a will, there’s a way — even in one of the most unaffordable property markets on the planet. Whether it’s teaming up with family or buying regionally while living at home, these savvy buyers are rewriting the homeownership playbook.