Dave Ramsey’s Advice for Gen Z in Fargo-Moorhead: Invest in a Home

By Christopher Leigh, Vision Realty Team
August 6, 2025

Powered by Vision Realty’s Local Expertise

For many young adults, the dream of homeownership feels elusive, especially in today’s market with high mortgage rates and tight inventory. Yet, a recent caller to "The Ramsey Show" proved that strategic saving can change the game—and Dave Ramsey’s advice might resonate with Gen Z in Fargo-Moorhead. At Vision Realty, we’re seeing local young adults take note, with opportunities emerging in neighborhoods like The Wilds and Prairie Meadows.

Nick, a 22-year-old from New York City earning $15,000 via a work-study program, called in with $3,000 in savings and $43,000 invested in stocks. Expecting retirement advice, he got a surprise: Ramsey urged him to shift focus from investing to buying a home. “You’re early in your process,” Ramsey said, suggesting Nick move his stock investments into mutual funds and prioritize moving out, launching a career, and building financial independence over starting a Roth IRA just yet.

Time to Move Out in Fargo-Moorhead

Ramsey’s tough-love approach—“Get your own place, Nick. I don’t want you 28 years old in your mother’s basement”—rings true locally. With Fargo-Moorhead’s growing job market and affordable housing options, Gen Z can transition out sooner. Vision Realty data shows homes in Horace and South Fargo are within reach for young buyers with creative strategies.

Gen Z’s Place in the Local Market

Nationally, Gen Z accounts for just 3% of homebuyers in 2025, per the National Association of Realtors®, compared to 42% for Baby Boomers. In Fargo-Moorhead, the challenge is similar—high costs and student debt delay ownership—but local trends offer hope. Hannah Jones of Realtor.com® notes that affordability remains a hurdle, yet 17% of recent purchases here involve multigenerational households, a record high.

Locally, Gen Z is adapting. A Bank of America Institute survey found 22% of Gen Z homeowners bought with siblings, up from 12% in 2024. In Moorhead and West Fargo, we’re seeing more young adults pool resources or live with family to save for down payments. However, an Insurify survey reveals 90% underestimated homeownership costs, a lesson Vision Realty helps clients navigate with budgeting tools.

Vision Realty’s Take

For Fargo-Moorhead’s Gen Z, homeownership is achievable with the right plan. Ramsey’s advice to save aggressively and buy early aligns with local opportunities—homes in Deer Creek or Lakeview offer value for first-timers. Contact Vision Realty at (701) 715-4747 or chris@visionrealty.us for a free consultation to explore listings and financing options tailored to your goals.

Disclaimer: Information is based on national trends, Ramsey’s advice, and Vision Realty’s local insights. Market conditions vary, and all decisions should involve professional guidance.