Address
The Galleria 9626 N. Kings Hwy
Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
When we talk about housing trends in 2025, most of the buzz centers on Millennials struggling with affordability or Gen Z just stepping into homeownership. But beneath the headlines, a quieter, more powerful shift is taking place—Baby Boomers are making one of the biggest comebacks in real estate history. And if you’re a real estate agent, this is a trend you can’t afford to ignore.
According to the National Association of REALTORS®’ latest data, Baby Boomers (ages 60–78) now represent 42% of all home buyers and a staggering 53% of sellers—regaining their position as the most influential generation in the market. Let’s dive into what’s fueling this surge, how it’s reshaping the landscape, and what real estate professionals can do to serve this demographic more effectively.
Boomers Are Back—And Buying Big
In a generational plot twist, Boomers have overtaken Millennials as the top buying cohort. What’s motivating them? A mix of personal milestones and practical lifestyle changes. The desire to move closer to family, retire in comfort, or downsize to a more manageable home are leading factors.
Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist at NAR, notes that “half of older boomers and two out of five younger boomers are purchasing homes entirely with cash, bypassing financing altogether.” This ability to move quickly and decisively makes them a dream demographic for agents.
Equity is Their Secret Weapon
Boomers have something most younger buyers don’t: deep home equity.
Thanks to long-term ownership—an average of 13 to 16 years—Boomers were perfectly positioned to benefit from a 47% national increase in home prices over the past five years. Many are now using that equity to pay cash for their next home. In fact, 62% of those aged 70–78 used proceeds from a previous home sale as their primary down payment source.
With all-cash purchases now accounting for 32% of all home sales, agents should recognize that Baby Boomers are a major force behind this trend. Their financial flexibility gives them a unique advantage in today’s competitive market, especially as high mortgage rates deter younger, first-time buyers.
What Boomers Expect from Real Estate Agents
Even with their experience and resources, Baby Boomers are not navigating this process alone. The NAR report confirms that buyers of all ages—Boomers included—still turn to real estate professionals for guidance, support, and expertise.
Here’s what they’re looking for:
- Help finding the right property
- Support negotiating sale terms and price
- Assistance with paperwork and legal compliance
- Strategic advice for marketing their previous home
And while digital tools and search platforms play a role, agents remain the #1 information source across all age groups. Trust, experience, and human connection still matter—especially to buyers and sellers who value personal service over digital shortcuts.
How Agents Can Win with the Boomer Market
This isn’t just a trend—it’s a strategic opportunity. Here’s how agents can better serve and attract Boomer clients:
1. Prioritize Clarity Over Flash
Boomers prefer direct, reliable communication. Skip the jargon and Instagram flash; focus on clear, professional advice that instills confidence.
2. Sell the Lifestyle, Not Just the House
Retirement and relocation often go hand-in-hand. Speak to lifestyle goals like proximity to grandchildren, walkability, or low-maintenance living.
3. Promote New Builds and Turnkey Properties
About 30% of Boomers are buying new homes—and it’s not by accident. They want to avoid the hassle of renovations and prefer choosing features that suit their needs right out of the gate.
4. Anticipate All-Cash Transactions
Be ready to move fast. Many Boomers are making offers with no financing contingencies, and they expect swift execution from their agents.
5. Map Out the Move
Boomers tend to relocate farther than other groups—a median of 35 miles away from their previous residence. Offer relocation services, community overviews, and introductions to local service providers to ease their transition.
Conclusion: The Market-Moving Generation
While Millennials may dominate the cultural narrative, Baby Boomers are the ones currently moving the housing market. Their equity, life stage, and cash-ready posture make them the most empowered buyer and seller segment today.
For real estate agents, this is a moment to adapt and lead. Baby Boomers aren’t slowing down—they’re just getting started on their next chapter. The question is: will you be the trusted guide who helps them write it?
Want to unlock more strategies for working with high-equity clients like Baby Boomers?
📩 Contact Pinnacle Real Estate Academy to level up your skills with expert training designed for today’s market realities.
