Boomers vs. Zoomers: How Do Different Generations See Property?

Charlie Wakim Posted on 17 Sep 2025

Boomers vs. Zoomers: How Generations Shape the Property Market

By Charlie Wakim

The property market isn’t just about location and price — it’s also shaped by the people buying and selling. From Baby Boomers to Gen Z, each generation brings its own mindset, priorities, and strategies to the table. So, how do these generational differences play out in real estate? Let’s break it down.

Q: Who are the key generations in today’s property market?

Here’s a quick overview:

Silent Generation (1928–1945): Loyal, disciplined, and conservative. Grew up before the digital age.
Baby Boomers (1946–1964): Competitive and goal-oriented. Value stability and face-to-face communication.
Gen X (1965–1980): Independent and pragmatic. Tech-savvy and entrepreneurial.
Millennials (1981–1996): Collaborative and socially conscious. Grew up with the internet and smartphones.
Gen Z (1997–2012): Digital natives. Value authenticity and see property as a financial stepping stone.
Gen Alpha (2013–2025): Still developing, but expected to be highly tech-integrated and globally connected.

Q: How do Baby Boomers approach property?

Baby Boomers are known for their long-term mindset.

41% bought their first home intending to live there for life.
Only 35% saw their first property as a stepping stone.
Just 9% bought a fixer-upper.

Their approach was about stability, lifestyle, and settling down — often in suburbs they planned to stay in for decades.

Q: What’s different about Gen Z and Millennials?

Younger generations are more flexible and financially strategic.

47% of Gen Z and 54% of Millennials saw their first home as a stepping stone.
17% of Gen Z and 13% of Millennials bought their first property as an investment.
22% of Gen Z and 19% of Millennials opted for fixer-uppers — a sharp contrast to Boomers.

They’re focused on getting a foot on the property ladder, even if it means renovating or moving again in a few years.

Q: What about Gen X?

Gen X sits somewhere in the middle.

36% viewed their first home as a forever home — second only to Boomers.
12% bought fixer-uppers, showing a mix of practicality and ambition.

They’re often seen as the bridge between traditional and modern property mindsets.

Q: What does this mean for the property market?

It means the market is evolving — fast.

Boomers shaped the suburbs with long-term living in mind.
Zoomers (Gen Z) and Millennials are reshaping it with investment strategies, renovations, and mobility.

Developers, agents, and investors need to understand these shifts to meet changing demands. Whether it’s designing flexible living spaces or targeting first-time buyers with renovation potential, generational insight is key.

Final Thoughts

The property market isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s a reflection of generational values, economic realities, and lifestyle goals. Whether you’re a Boomer looking to downsize or a Zoomer trying to break in, understanding these differences can help you make smarter property decisions.