Modern Couples and Real Estate: A Unique Relationship

Is it the wealth factor or simply the space? For many couples today, owning property might last longer than their romantic ties.

A recent survey reveals that about 25% of homeowners believe their home will still be in their lives a decade from now, while their partner may not be. Interestingly, one in five respondents finds it tougher to give up their home than their relationship.

When it comes to tough choices, one in six individuals would send their partner packing to secure the house. This sentiment is even stronger among younger generations, with 25% of millennials and 28% of unmarried couples indicating the same.

Additionally, 29% claim that homeownership is their primary relationship stressor, and that same percentage views their financial security as more reliable than that of their significant other. Moreover, many report that nothing strains their relationship more than owning a home.

Surprisingly, 21% of respondents noted that leaving their home would be harder than parting from their partner. Once again, if given a choice, one in six would choose their home over their relationship, a sentiment that also resonates with 25% of millennials and 28% of unmarried couples.

The findings stem from a survey organized by Clever Real Estate on June 4 and 5, 2026, which included 1,000 Americans who bought a home with a partner.

While most people purchase homes with a spouse, there’s a growing trend of couples—13%—making such decisions before marriage, with 5% opting to co-own without tying the knot.

Interestingly, 8% of buyers felt pressured to purchase a property before they were ready, a figure that spikes to 35% among millennials.

A notable portion of co-owners—over a quarter—regret their joint purchase, with the regret rate soaring to 50% for millennials and 45% for those who aren’t married.

Once the paperwork is finalized, the excitement tends to wane quickly.

Among couples, 29% consider homeownership as their biggest relationship strain, and this figure rises to 36% for unmarried partners. Health-related issues follow closely as the second most significant difficulty in relationships.

Among those who bought a home before marriage or chose not to marry, around 25% wish they had waited until they were married to make such a purchase.

Over half of respondents noticed that their partner’s quirks became far more annoying post-move, with 24% often daydreaming about living alone. An intriguing 5% admitted that the stress of homeownership has led them to revisit dating apps, with 29% of millennials acknowledging the same sentiment.

Despite these challenges, most couples don’t consider their future family plans if they separate.

While 36% of buyers believe they are entitled to retain their home if the relationship falters, a significant 66% have never discussed what would happen to the property in the event of a breakup. Furthermore, a mere 7% have formalized their agreements in writing.

Interestingly, couples who purchase homes before marriage appear to be more prepared for potential separations.

A noteworthy 35% of those not yet married have contemplated separation plans, compared to just 17% of married couples. They are also nearly three times more likely to put such plans in writing.