Baby Boomers own nearly 40% of US homes and 78% plan to stay put! Is their “stability” actually a housing blockade crushing Millennial and Gen Z homeownership dreams? On this episode (Ep 42) of the 5-Minute PRIME Podcast, host Martin Maxwell dives into the explosive debate. We explore the data behind why Boomer Housing aren’t selling (hello, 54% mortgage-free!), the impact on record-high prices and low inventory squeezing younger buyers, and how savvy investors are navigating (and profiting from) this generational gridlock.
Tune in for the 360° view:
- The Boomer POV: Why aging in place feels like the only smart move.
- The Millennial/Gen Z Struggle: Priced out and locked out of larger homes?
- The Investor Angle: Finding opportunity amidst the supply crunch.
- Hard Data: Ownership rates, inventory levels, price trends, and future forecasts.
Who’s right? Who’s wrong? And what does it mean for your real estate goals? Subscribe now for a reality check on the generational housing divide!
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Show Notes
Key Takeaways
- Boomers are staying put—by choice and necessity: 78% of Boomers over 60 plan to age in place, citing comfort, financial stability, and the cost of moving.
- Financially, they’re in a strong spot: Over half of Boomer homeowners have no mortgage, making it easy to stay and hard to justify selling.
- Younger generations are struggling to buy: Millennials and Gen Z face high prices, low inventory, and rising rates, locking them out of traditional wealth-building.
- Boomers control key inventory types: They own twice as many 3+ bedroom homes as Millennials with children—housing that’s in high demand.
- Investors are shifting strategy: High rental demand and the potential of a “silver tsunami” of listings in the next decade are creating new paths for returns.
- Real estate is being reshaped by generational behavior: This dynamic isn’t about blame—it’s about understanding how demographics, market conditions, and policy intersect.
- Rising inventory doesn’t equal relief—yet: Despite a 19% YoY increase, inventory still lags behind pre-pandemic norms.
- The affordability crisis is still sharp: National median home prices hover at $360K, with higher numbers in desirable markets.
- Creative solutions are essential: Boomer Housing hack, ADUs, co-living models, and workforce housing are becoming more important than ever.
- No villains, just complex forces at play: Understanding each perspective leads to smarter strategies, whether you’re buying, holding, or investing.
Action Step
Pull out your current homeowner’s insurance policy and:
- Boomer: Reevaluate if your home still fits your life. Consider exploring downsizing or adding an ADU.
- Younger Buyers: Improve your financial foundation. Research down payment assistance or house hacking strategies.
- Investors: Dive into local data. Analyze rental demand vs. available 3+ bedroom homes and explore new development angles.
Mentioned in This Episode
Episodes to Revisit:
- Ep 4 – Equity Building 101
- Ep 15 – Financial Foundations for First-Time Buyers
- Ep 22 – Workforce Housing Opportunities
- Ep 28 – House Hacking Explained
- Ep 30 – The Lock-In Effect and Housing Affordability
- Ep 31 – Housing Starts and Construction Slowdown
- Ep 32 – FHA & Assistance Programs
- Ep 33 – ADUs and Zoning Flexibility
- Ep 34 – Hyperlocal Market Trends
- Ep 39 – Tariffs and Their Impact on Housing Costs
Challenge for Today
Reflect on how this generational boomer housing shift affects you:
- Boomers: Research the cost and process of downsizing or adding an ADU.
- Younger buyers: Look into FHA loan options or down payment assistance.
- Investors: Analyze the balance of rental demand vs. for-sale inventory in your area. Choose one step and take action today.
