Owning isn’t “impossible,” and renting isn’t “throwing money away”, it’s about timing and a plan. This Gen Z–focused guide lays out a practical 3‑year roadmap: Year 1 builds the foundation (know your numbers, define your why, start a down‑payment fund, even $25/week and clean up credit with autopay and a debt‑paydown strategy). Year 2 increases buying power (boost income creatively, reduce rent strategically, and learn your options, from first‑time buyer incentives to flexible loan programs).

In Year 3, you take action: get pre‑approved to shop with clarity, assemble your home team (agent, lender, mentor), and consider smart first steps like house hacking, roommates, or up‑and‑coming areas. Myth‑busters included (you don’t always need 20% down; waiting for prices to drop can backfire). Use the checklists to turn rent dollars into equity and move from “not yet” to keys‑in‑hand, without blowing your budget or your lifestyle.