Dave Savage: Why trust is the real barrier to homeownership

Dave Savage: Why trust is the real barrier to homeownership

From Power House by HousingWire

April 2, 2026 · 26 min

About this episode

Dave Savage discusses the importance of trust and education in preparing the next generation for homeownership.

In this episode of Power House, Zeb Lowe sits down with Dave Savage, co-founder of FirstHome IQ, to discuss a challenge that could shape the future of housing: preparing the next generation for homeownership. Drawing on insights from the NextGen Homebuyer Report, Savage explains why many younger buyers feel both overwhelmed by the process and disconnected from the mortgage industry. He argues that the solution isn’t more marketing—it’s education, storytelling, and leadership from housing professionals willing to guide buyers earlier in their journey. The conversation explores how lenders can engage Gen Z before they’re ready to transact, the growing role of parents in homeownership, and why rebuilding trust will be critical to expanding access in the years ahead. Related to the episode: Zeb Lowe’s LinkedIn Dave Savage’s LinkedIn First Home IQ The Power House podcast brings the biggest names in housing to answer hard-hitting questions about industry trends, operational and growth strategy, and leadership. Join HousingWire’s Zeb Lowe every Thursday morning for candid conversations with industry leaders to learn how they’re differentiating themselves from the competition. Hosted and…

People in this episode

Host: Zeb Lowe

Guest: Dave Savage

Topics covered

  • homeownership
  • trust
  • education
  • Gen Z
  • mortgage industry

Keywords

  • NextGen Homebuyer Report
  • lenders
  • parents
  • housing professionals

Mentioned in this episode

Products: FirstHome IQ

Books & works: First Home IQ

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