Not Everyone Is Looking for a Bigger Home

Over the past year, we’ve had plenty of opportunity to reflect on what we consider important in our lives. For more than a few, where we call home has been the subject of some serious thought. According to George Ratiu, Senior Economist at realtor.com:

“The very nature of the pandemic, through the health implications, social distancing, and need to isolate, has really brought a central focus on the importance of home for most Americans…In a sense, it has elevated real estate markets as a centerpiece of our lives.”

This has spurred an interest by many in making a move to a home that better suits changing needs. In a recent study on today’s homebuyer preferences, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reported:

“When asked more specifically how the pandemic may have impacted their preference for home size…21% or about 1 out of every 5 buyers, do want a larger home now as a direct result of the health crisis, while another segment – 12% – would prefer a smaller one instead.”

While you might expect more time at home to lead to a need for more space, it’s interesting that a significant portion of homeowners actually want less. For those who currently own larger homes and have a desire to move, today’s housing market is full of opportunities as Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com explained:

“In a real estate market that is tipped in the favor of sellers, boomers and older homeowners are really the ones holding the cards…Those who are selling homes can use the profits to help them buy new ones.”

Today’s homeowners likely have equity that can be put toward the purchase of their next home. With the equity growing over the past year, you may have more than you think, which can help you significantly make a move into your next home. According to a report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“Home sellers cited that they sold their homes for a median of $66,000 more than they purchased it. Sellers 22 to 30 years gained the least at $33,400 in equity compared to sellers 66 to 74 years gained $100,000 in equity as they likely had lived in their homes for a longer period of time.”

Despite the benefits of growing home equity, some homeowners remain hesitant to move and could be considering remodeling or making changes to their current space. However, if you’ve thought about aging in place rather than downsizing, you may want to reconsider. The U.S. Census Bureau points out:

“Of the nation’s 115 million housing units, only 10% are ready to accommodate older populations.”

If your house is no longer the best fit for your evolving needs, it may be time to put your equity to work for you and downsize to the home you really want.

Today’s housing market favors homeowners, who are ready to sell and make a move. If you’re thinking about downsizing this year, let’s connect at 508-568-8191 or [email protected] to review your options.

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In response to industry regulatory changes, we’ve rebranded our team name to “Mari Sennott Plus.”

Over the next few weeks, you’ll be seeing references to “Mari Sennott and Associates” on our website, email, etc. replaced with our new team name.

While we were very happy with the old name, the new “Mari Sennott Plus” reflects our commitment to always going the extra mile for our clients, as well as a hoped for expansion of our team later this year.

Don’t wish for it; go for it!

Mari and Hank