Blog > How To Sell Your Home To The Next Generations Of Home Buyers
How To Sell Your Home To The Next Generations Of Home Buyers
In today's real estate market, two generations are making significant waves - Millennials and Gen Z. They represent the future of home buyers. But what makes these two groups tick and how do real estate professionals such as myself adapt to understand their unique preferences and needs?
Millennials: The Dominant Force
Millennials have taken the real estate market by storm, becoming the largest group of potential homebuyers. Their journey, however, isn't without its hurdles. Initially, many dream of spacious homes but often have to adjust their expectations due to sky-high prices and limited housing options in most markets. There's one thing they won't compromise on though - the condition of the property they invest in.
Gen Z: The Rising Stars
Generation Z, the youngest potential home buyers in Canada, is also the youngest generation of REALTORS®. With over 6.7 million Canadians falling into this category (born between 1997 and 2012), they're poised to outnumber both millennials and baby boomers soon. To tap into this market, savvy REALTORS® need to understand their unique characteristics.
What Appeals to both Millennials & Gen Z:
-
Move-In Ready Homes: They both crave homes that are move-in ready. Their fast-paced lives, filled with job changes and relocations, leave little room for extensive renovations. To capture their attention, present homes that look like they've jumped out of a home decor magazine.
-
Social Spaces: They value sociable living. They seek homes that encourage gathering, mingling, and socializing. Open floor plans that eliminate barriers are a big hit. Renovations that blend cooking, living, and dining spaces, or the addition of outdoor decks for entertaining, can be a major selling point.
-
Eco-Friendly Features: Sustainability matters to them. It's not just a preference; for some, it's a deal-breaker. Upgrading your home to meet the latest environmental standards is a smart move. Think energy-efficient heating, cooling, and insulation systems, or using sustainable materials like bamboo in flooring and kitchen cabinets.
Engaging both Millenials & Gen Z:
While Gen Zers are true digital natives who have grown up with smartphones and the internet as constants in their lives, Millenials are not that far behind. To connect with both of them, social media is a must. However social media content should not only be professional but also engaging and personal. Personally, my social media is my platform to showcase your expertise and expand my network. It often leads to meaningful real estate conversations.
Despite their tech-savvy nature, they still values in-person experiences, especially when it comes to home tours. Since many are first-time buyers (Gen Zers especially), providing education and support is essential. However, they are independent learners and often come well-prepared, having already researched market statistics and trends.
Changing Demographics: A Glimpse into the Future
Looking ahead, population projections suggest that millennials will soon surpass baby boomers to become the largest generation in Canada, possibly by 2029. Generation Z isn't far behind; they could outnumber both millennials and baby boomers in the coming decades. This shift in demographics is reshaping the real estate landscape, and staying tuned to these changes is vital for real estate professionals in the years to come.
Selling to the next generations isn't as daunting as it might seem. By following these insights, you can prepare your property to resonate with these influential groups of homebuyers. Focus on move-in readiness, creating social spaces, and embracing eco-friendly features to increase your chances of a successful sale. In a nutshell, these generations are vibrant with very distinct preferences. Their tech-savvy nature, combined with a strong desire for homeownership, opens up opportunities for adaptable REALTORS® who are willing to engage with them on their terms. As we embrace this future, success in real estate is not just possible; it's inevitable.
Data source: Stats Canada & CREA