Others point to inherent advantages of staying as a renter, such as low upkeep and more flexibility.
Additionally, some are reluctant to own a home, with fresh memories of the financial crisis when home prices plunged.
The findings suggest that without a significantly improved economy or easier credit standards, renters are unlikely to change their habits any time soon. Consequently, the slow rebound in the housing market may persist, but residential REITs may continue to prosper under the new dynamics.
iShares Residential Real Estate Capped ETF
For more information on real estate investment trusts, visit our REITs category.
Max Chen contributed to this article.