Buying a first home has long been a key milestone for young adults, symbolizing independence and financial stability. But for many in the US, stepping into the housing market has become increasingly difficult.

Nationally, homeownership rates dropped among all age groups, but only 36.4% under the age of 35 are homeowners, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

“ Massachusetts is the least affordable state in the US in terms of home price,” says Hannah Jones, senior economic research analyst at Realtor.com® . “The median listing price in July was $797,000 in Massachusetts, which would require a minimum recommended income of roughly $210,000 annually to afford.

“Affordability challenges in Massachusetts have deepened over the years, fueled by strong demand as peo

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