The next generation is moving in! As we pointed out in our last blog post, millennials will remain a dominating force in the Utah housing market this year. For the fourth year in a row, Generation Y (those born between 1980 and 2000) is expected to comprise the largest segment of the buyer market (33%), ahead of Generation X (30%), those born between 1965 and 1979, according to a recent report by the National Association of Realtors.
Additionally, a whopping 86% of millennial home buyers indicated they were ready to purchase because of a change in their household size and composition—including marriage and/or planning to start a family. This “growing household” trigger was much higher for millennials than for any other type of home buyers. Millennials also reported that a stable or improving income triggered them to shop.
If you have plans to take on the Utah housing market this year, you’re going to want to appeal to younger, first-time homebuyers. You’ll likely sell your home more quickly and at your asking price if you speak to the market majority. Here are a few things to keep in mind before listing your home:
Efficiency is key! Millennials say they’re willing to pay up to 3% more if a home’s energy efficiency upgrades will help cut utility costs (according to the NAHB survey).
Younger millennials are looking at condos in urban areas, with millennials entering their 30’s are looking in the ‘burbs for detached, single-family homes.
More so than their parents, millennials tend to look at convenience, walkability and technology as selling points.
They’re more apt to look at the experiences of friends (i.e. watching foreclosures all around them) and are willing to wait for a more stable time to buy.
More than two-thirds of millennials think “smart home” technology is an investment worth making (think upgrades like security cameras, smart thermostats and outlets and keyless entry).
Around 13 million Americans telecommute, a shift that’s largely driven by millennials. A home office is likely a ‘must-have’ on their list, so create a space that appeals to that desire.
39% of millennials report a desire for low-maintenance, ‘edible’ landscaping (more time in the garden, less time with lawn care).
The next generation has only begun to impact the Utah housing market. As incomes increase with age and shape family and financial decisions, millennials will continue to spur change. The real estate industry will need to adapt to their needs and innovate accordingly — just like it has with the generations before them.