As an auctioneer I hear the term alot, but believe it or not I don't actually have to use it myself. It is usually the mum or dad of a 20something that is looking for their first home. It really is a cultural thing in my estimation and I don't envisage it changing anytime soon. Having said that I also know of alot of people from the countries that the OP referred to that have bought property here. I also don't think people use the term to sound intelligent, it is just a tired cliche that is used without great thought like all other tired cliches.