Home Equity and Labor Income: The Role of Constrained Mobility
Review of Financial Studies, Forthcoming
88 Pages Posted: 5 May 2017 Last revised: 18 Aug 2020
Date Written: June 1, 2019
Abstract
Using detailed data for homeowners in the U.S., we document a negative, non-linear relation between the loan-to-value ratio (LTV) of the primary residence and labor income. Consistent with constrained mobility for high LTV individuals, we find stronger effects among sub-prime, liquidity constrained individuals and those living in regions with limited local alternate employment opportunities and strict non-compete law enforcement. Though high LTV individuals are less likely to move residences across MSAs, they are more likely to change jobs without changing their residence. We find no effects among similar neighboring renters employed at the same firm with similar job tenure.
Keywords: Home Equity, Mortgage Debt, Income, Labor Mobility, Debt Overhang
JEL Classification: D10, G21, J30, J62, J61, R20
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation