A new national survey reveals that many younger Canadians view buying a home as just as important – and just as pressured – as other major life milestones like marriage or having children.
First-Time Homebuyer Frustration
According to the 2025 Homebuying Pressure Point Survey by Wahi and the Angus Reid Forum, 54% of millennials and 41% of Gen Z respondents say they have felt pressure to purchase a home. This is well above the national average of 34%, and far higher than Gen X (30%) and baby boomers (13%) – the generations with the highest homeownership rates.
Generational definitions used in the survey:
- Gen Z: Ages 18–27
- Millennials: Ages 28–43
- Gen X: Ages 44–59
- Baby Boomers: Ages 60–78
Industry experts say the pressure is amplified by social expectations and the belief that homeownership equals personal and financial success.
Societal Pressure Meets Ownership Gap
For Gen Z and millennials, societal norms were the most common driver of pressure to buy a home, with 59% of Gen Z and 55% of millennials citing it as the main factor. In contrast, only 33% of Gen X and 27% of baby boomers reported societal expectations as a key influence – most pointed to personal goals instead.
Younger Canadians are also far less likely to own property. The survey shows:
- 81% of baby boomers own a home
- 74% of Gen X own a home
- 61% of millennials own a home
- Only 21% of Gen Z own a home
This widening generational ownership gap is fueling anxiety among younger buyers who feel homeownership is becoming out of reach.
Perception vs. Reality
The survey found that 62% of respondents underestimated Canada’s homeownership rate, believing it to be 50% or less. In reality, two-thirds of Canadians own a home according to the 2021 national census.
Adding to the pressure, half of Canadians say renting carries a negative stigma, and 51% of non-owners are dissatisfied with their current housing situation.
Regional Differences in Homebuying Pressure
Regional affordability plays a major role in how much pressure Canadians feel to buy:
- Lowest pressure: Quebec (26%), Atlantic Canada (29%)
- Highest pressure: Alberta (41%) and British Columbia (39%) – two markets with high demand and, in B.C.’s case, some of the country’s steepest prices.
Expert Advice: Readiness Over Urgency
Mortgage experts recommend focusing on personal readiness rather than rushing into the market because of outside pressure. Buyers are encouraged to:
- Understand true affordability
- Explore options like co-ownership
- Prioritize financial stability before purchasing
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