National Association of Realtors Report Reveals Aging Homebuyers and Persistent Affordability Challenges for Younger Generations
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) 2026 'Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers' indicates a U.S. housing market characterized by an aging buyer demographic and significant affordability hurdles for younger individuals. The report, which covers transactions from July 2025 to June 2026, shows that the typical homebuyer is 58 years old, with repeat buyers averaging 62. These older buyers often possess substantial equity and higher incomes, with 30% of repeat buyers making all-cash purchases. Homeowners are also holding onto their properties for a record 12 years before selling. First-time buyers represent only 22% of the market, a slight increase from the previous year's low of 21%, but still far below historical norms of around 40%. The median age for first-time buyers has risen to 40, compared to the late 20s in the 1980s. A notable trend among first-time buyers is the increase in all-cash purchases, now at 10%, often facilitated by wealth transfers from older generations. Younger households, particula...
