Is Wall Street Really Buying All the Homes?
The belief that Wall Street is buying up all the homes and making it impossible for regular buyers to compete is largely a myth. While big investors do play a role in the housing market, their presence is far smaller than many assume. According to Redfin, five out of every six homes are purchased by everyday buyers, not corporations. Most investors aren’t massive Wall Street firms but small, local, mom-and-pop investors who typically own fewer than 10 properties. These are your neighbors or individuals renting out an extra property—not corporate giants with endless resources.
Even the small portion of the market represented by investors is shrinking. A report from CoreLogic shows that investor purchases have been steadily declining, from 149,000 in June 2021 to 80,000 in June 2024. This trend is expected to continue, making it clear that the competition from investors is less intense than it was in the past.
The truth is that while today’s housing market remains challenging, Wall Street isn’t the primary reason. The majority of homes are still bought by individuals and families. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about your chances, talking to a local real estate agent can help you understand the market better and develop a strategy to find your ideal home.
