Three Charts Show Struggle Is Real for Millennial Home Buyers

First-time homebuyers are a key part of America’s housing sector, but student loan debt and a lack of affordable homes are weighing on their purchase plans.

New entrants to the real estate market have dwindled since the financial crisis to 33% of total sales versus 42% in the early 2000s. That coincides with a shrinking supply of lower-priced properties and tighter lending standards, making mortgage approvals tougher amid a record in delinquent school debt.