If you’re carrying student loans, you’re not alone — and you may be wondering if homeownership is out of reach because of it.

You’re not the only one asking that question. In fact, a recent survey found that 72% of people with student debt believe it will delay their ability to buy a home.

But here’s the truth:
Student loans don’t have to hold you back from becoming a homeowner.

Do You Really Need to Wait?

Many first-time buyers assume they need to pay off their student loans completely before they can even think about buying a house. But that’s often not the case.

According to Yahoo Finance:

“Student loans don’t have to get in your way when it comes to becoming a homeowner. With the right approach and an understanding of how debt impacts your home-buying options, buying a house when you have student loans is possible.”

In other words, it's about balance — not elimination.

What the Data Says

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 32% of first-time buyers successfully purchased a home while still carrying student debt.

This proves one thing clearly:
It’s not only possible — it’s common.

So if you’ve been holding off out of fear that your student loans disqualify you, let this data be your reassurance: people are doing it, and you can too.

What Lenders Really Care About

What matters more to lenders than just your student debt balance is how that debt fits into your full financial picture — especially your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) and credit score.

As Chase notes:

“Student loans usually don’t affect your ability to qualify for a mortgage any differently than other types of debt you have on your credit report, such as credit card debt or auto loans.”

In fact, many homebuyers with student loans also qualify for first-time buyer programs, down payment assistance, or flexible loan options that take their full financial picture into account.

Bottom Line

Student loan debt doesn’t mean you have to wait to buy a home.

Before you count yourself out, talk to a trusted mortgage lender.
They can help you understand your eligibility, walk you through loan programs designed for first-time buyers, and show you how close you really are to owning a home.

?? Ready to see where you stand? Let’s connect and get you on the path to homeownership — student loans and all.