From Zero-Down Loans to 5/1 ARMs: How Gen Z is Redefining First-Time Homeownership
Generation Z—defined as individuals born between
1997 and 2012—is entering homeownership earlier than expected and increasingly influencing the residential real estate market. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z is not waiting until they have a traditional 20% down payment saved. Instead, they are leveraging a combination of low-down-payment and zero-down financing options to get into homes sooner.
Gen Z is the first generation to grow up fully immersed in technology. They are digital natives—accustomed to real-time information, online comparison shopping, and researching major decisions independently before engaging with professionals. Their approach to buying a home mirrors these behaviors.
According to Redfin, in 2024 just over
26.1% of adult Gen Zers (ages 19–27) owned homes — essentially flat from the previous years.
According to National Association of Realtors (NAR) data, Gen Zers aged 18–25 made up only
3% of home buyers in the U.S. in the referenced study Gen Z represented
13% of U.S. home-mortgage applications in 2024 (up from ~10% in 2023) per an article summarizing CoreLogic data.
While Gen Z currently makes up roughly
3% of all home buyers, their mortgage-application share is already 13% as they edge into the market. They are coming of age.
Key characteristics of Gen Z include:
Digital Natives: First generation raised with the internet, smartphones, and social platforms from childhood.
Diverse & Inclusive: The most racially and ethnically diverse generation in U.S. history.
Financially Conservative: Values financial stability and sees homeownership as a foundation, not a finish line.
Entrepreneurial: High engagement in gig-based income, side businesses, and self-employment.
Research-Driven: Prefers to learn online (YouTube, TikTok, Google) before speaking with an expert.
Homeownership Focused: More willing than Millennials to purchase a home early, even without 20% down.
We have had the pleasure of helping quite a few Gen Z and very Young Gen Y homebuyers recently. It has been a lot of fun and very satisfying helping such young home buyers. Over the past few years with rates up from the lows of the Pandemic, we have seen fewer first-time home buyers in the past couple of years. It is refreshing to see they are coming back.
Historically, younger buyers have been sidelined by the misconception that a 20% down payment is required to purchase a home. Gen Z is proving that outdated.
The majority of Gen Z homebuyers are using:
- FHA financing with 3.5% down
- The FHA 5/1 ARM which carries a lower rate, and allows you to qualify for more.
- Conventional financing with 3% down
- Zero-down FHA programs (with no income limits)
These programs are available for all generations and not just for first time homebuyer or Gen Z! These programs offer affordability and flexibility, allowing Gen Z to enter the market sooner and build equity sooner—rather than waiting years to accumulate a large down payment.
What I like about these “kids” is they want true guidance. They are not looking for a lender to just quote a rate. They’re looking for a lender who will:
- Compare multiple financing strategies
- Show cash to close and payment differences
- Explain how to refinance later when rates improve
This generation wants clarity and total cost transparency.
Recently, we worked with a Gen Z couple in the Sacramento Area — both in their mid-twenties, with their first baby due in eight weeks. We structured a zero-down FHA purchase, negotiated closing credits, and helped them purchase a $475,000 home with just $16,000 total out of pocket.
Another Gen Z buyer in Bakerfield, CA,— selected a strategy-focused loan structure. Using a 5/1 ARM, he secured a rate below 5%, kept his payment low, and closed with only $25,000 out of pocket on a property in a highly competitive market. It also increased his purchase power, allowing him to qualify for more home in the neighborhood he preferred.
What We Do Differently:
At Fresh Home Loan, we believe homeownership shouldn’t be complicated or intimidating.
We exist to make the process accessible, strategic, and yes — “cool” at least “cooler” than it is now. Through education, transparency, and modern loan options, buyers gain clarity, confidence, and a plan.
We don’t just pre-approve.
We guide. We strategize. We execute.
If you want a lender who will show you every available option, walk you through payment and cash-to-close, and build a financing plan that aligns with your goals and timeline.
If you want a lender who will show you every available option, walk you through payment and cash-to-close, and build a financing plan that aligns with your goals and your timeline, then let’s talk.
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Call or Text: 510-282-5456
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Apply:
https://www.freshhomeloan.com/apply-now
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Garrick Werdmuller
President & CEO | Mortgage Broker
Fresh Home Loan Inc.
DRE 01368202 | NMLS 242952
Office: 510-282-5456
Email: garrick@freshhomeloan.com
Website: www.FreshHomeLoan.com
All loan approvals are conditional and not guaranteed and subject to lender review of all information. Loan is conditionally approved when lender has issued approval in writing, but until all conditions are met, loan cannot be funded. Specified rates and [products may not be available to all borrowers. Rates subject to change according to market conditions and agreed upon lock times set by borrower. Fresh Home Loan Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Mortgage Broker in California. This licensee is performing acts for which a real estate license is required. Fresh Home Loan, Inc. is licensed by the California Department of Real Estate #02137513 NMLS # 2124104













