spdrun, the “sea change” in SD Co’s FTB’s “home-preference” values occurred gradually over about 15 years, beginning in ~’87.

So I don’t see why some people still wouldn’t have bought a 1200-sq footer in the early 90s. 5 years was basically the start of the change. 🙂

As far as NY, preferences seem to be to rent in the city for a decade after college, then move out to the ‘burbs and buy something. What I did was pretty rare. Same with my sister in DC, which is sorta my point.

This being said, I kind of wish I was older and was able to buy in 1995. One building had co-ops going for $15,000 (corporation/HOA was bankrupt) that are now selling for about $300,000.