Doug MacFaddin, Director of the Meier Team, On Millennials

Accounting for more than 35 percent of new homes purchased last year, the millennial segment is the hottest demographic in the real estate market these days. But gone is the time of the stereotypical purchase of homes in Manhattan, Austin, or the Bay Area for this demographic. People ages 18-35 have been trending to places a little more off the beaten path when it comes to home purchases, trading in the expensive and trendy locations for more affordable options. Although some of these cities might surprise you, following are five of the top places that millennials are choosing to put their roots down with home purchases:

APPLETON, WISCONSIN: With a median home price of $150,000, Appleton skyrocketed to the top of the locales favored by millennials. Boasting a bevy of entertainment options geared toward young buyers such as a trendy beer scene and the recreational opportunities of nearby Lake Winnebago, this city has it all for any hip crowd.

DES MOINES, IOWA: Surging rent prices in this quintessential midwest town have turned many young professionals to seriously consider buying over renting. Despite a higher than average median home price structure, the city's residents are capitalizing on favorable interest rates and federal assistance programs to buy instead of rent.

UTICA, NEW YORK: Located about four hours north of New York City, this upstate New York town boasts low home prices for not just starter homes, but also for larger houses in more established neighborhoods. First-time buyers delight in the myriad of options at every price range, with median home prices hovering around $139,000.

PROVO, UTAH: Located about 45 miles south of Salt Lake City, Provo is home to the venerable Brigham Young University. Although median home prices in this college town are quite a bit higher than the national average clocking in at an average of $375,000, the city has pride over its higher than average wages thanks to a thriving high-tech industry.

DULUTH, MINNESOTA: With an idyllic setting on the banks of Lake Superior, Duluth boasts an exceptional quality of life because of its diverse outdoor recreational opportunities. The area's thriving aviation and manufacturing industries contribute to the city's plentiful job options for people of all skill levels and interests.

About Doug MacFaddin

Doug MacFaddin is an experienced professional in a variety of industries. He has worked in everything from business management to finance to software and real estate. Currently, Doug MacFaddin is based out of New York, New York and serves as the director of the Meier Team at Corcoran. Doug MacFaddin is a dedicated professional who through hard work, natural leadership skills and excellent client communication ability, has forged an incredibly successful career for himself.