61% of Boomers Say They’ll Never Sell — What That Means Now as Interest Rates Fall

Why This Matters

Boomer homeowners are holding onto their homes longer than ever. A survey by Clever Real Estate found that 61% of boomers say they “never” plan to sell their homes (up from 54% in 2024) and only 10% expect to sell within the next five years (Clever Real Estate).

This reluctance has ripple effects: fewer homes on the market, tougher competition for buyers, and less mobility overall. But with interest rates finally showing signs of easing, the picture may be shifting.

Key Data Points

• 61% of boomers report no plans to sell for the rest of their lives (Clever Real Estate).

• 10% expect to sell within five years, down from 15% in 2024 (Clever Real Estate).

• The Federal Reserve recently cut its key rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4.00–4.25%, signaling potential for more easing (Reuters).

• The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has declined to around 6.35%, one of the lowest levels in nearly a year (AP News).

What This Could Mean for Boomer Sellers

Many boomers have stayed put because their homes are paid off or they locked in ultra-low rates. Downsizing or upsizing meant giving up those favorable terms and taking on higher costs.

With rates trending lower, though:

• Downsizing becomes more financially viable since the gap between selling and buying shrinks.

• Retirement moves — like relocating to a warmer climate or simplifying into a condo — feel more attainable.

• Selling can unlock equity, reduce maintenance, and create lifestyle flexibility.

Market Ripple Effects

For everyone else, a shift in boomer behavior could open new doors:

• More boomer listings = more inventory and more choices for younger buyers.

• Pricing pressure may ease if supply increases.

• Buyers gain negotiating power when competition cools.

What Sellers Should Think About

Especially for boomers considering a move:

• Work with an agent who understands downsizing and interest-rate timing, and who can run “what-if” payment scenarios.

• Avoid overpricing. Position your home realistically to stay competitive.

• Focus on comfort, location, and lifestyle — the right next home should lower stress, not just monthly costs.

Final Take

We may be at a turning point. That 61% of boomers who once said “never” could start rethinking. With interest rates sliding, many may see the chance to finish strong: selling into a market with more balance and moving into homes that better fit this chapter of life.

Pairwell connects you with agents who know how to navigate downsizing, equity unlocking, and market timing. Move smart, keep your options open, and plan confidently for what comes next.

Explore how it works here → How It Works

FAQs: Quick Answers for Today’s Market

Q: Why have so many boomers avoided selling?

A: Many own their homes outright or have locked in low mortgage rates. Selling often felt like taking on unnecessary costs, especially when moving meant trading into a higher rate or higher monthly payment.

Q: How do falling interest rates change things?

A: Lower rates reduce the gap between what sellers give up and what they gain. That makes downsizing or relocating more realistic, since monthly costs are less of a jump.

Q: What does this mean for younger buyers?

A: If more boomers list their homes, inventory improves, prices stabilize, and buyers get more negotiating power — all of which can make entering the market less competitive.

Q: How does Pairwell fit in?

A: Pairwell matches you with agents who specialize in downsizing, relocations, and market strategy. That means you get expert guidance tailored to your goals, not just a random referral.

Visit meetpairwell.com to get matched with your perfect agent and stay ahead of the game.

Author - Hector Meza, Texas Real Estate Expert