Born to Run: Baby Boomers Are Dominating Today’s Market
Baby Boomers are the dominant force in today’s housing market — accounting for 42% of buyers and 55% of sellers — driven by lifestyle choices, downsizing, retirement planning, and strong financial leverage.
Market Share
- 42% of buyers are Baby Boomers (ages 61–79).
- 55% of sellers also come from this generation, underscoring their dual influence.
Lifestyle Moves
- Proximity to loved ones: 31% of Older Boomers (71–79) and 23% of Younger Boomers (61–70) bought homes to be closer to friends and family.
- Downsizing: 16% of Older Boomers and 11% of Younger Boomers purchased homes to reduce space.
- Retirement focus: 15% of Younger Boomers bought homes with retirement living in mind.
Veterans & VA Loans
- Veterans make up a significant share: 28% of Older Boomers and 18% of Younger Boomers.
- VA financing is key: 16% of Older Boomers and 14% of Younger Boomers used VA loans.
Property Ownership
- 6% of both groups own vacation homes.
- Senior housing communities are popular: 23% of Older Boomers and 13% of Younger Boomers chose them.
Financial Strength
- Cash dominance: 39% of Younger Boomers and 46% of Older Boomers paid all-cash for their homes.
- Among those who financed, most used proceeds from selling their prior residence.
Baby Boomers aren’t fading out of the housing market — they’re reshaping it. Their decisions reflect relationship-driven moves, retirement planning, and financial flexibility, making them the most powerful generational force in real estate today.
Source>> https://www.nar.realtor/news/economists-outlook/born-to-run-baby-boomers-are-dominating-todays-market