Good news for 'savvy' pensioners amid torrid housing market turmoil

WATCH NOW: Property expert Jonathan Rolande shares advice for sellers

GB News
Susanna Siddell

By Susanna Siddell


Published: 13/07/2025

- 16:54

Plenty of advantages can benefit older generations which generally elongate the buying process for younger individuals

Homeowners aged 65 and over are selling their properties faster than any other age group, putting to bed widespread assumptions about older sellers struggling in today's property market.

In fact, almost 15 per cent complete sales in just under a month, according to survey data from regulated property buyers Good Move.


By comparison, only nine per cent of 25 to 34-year-olds and fewer than three per cent of 35 to 44-year-olds achieved sales within the same timeframe, according to the research.

As a result, the findings show that over-65s significantly outperform younger generations when it comes to quick sales.

Real estate agent speaking with older couple at a table in front of papers and an open laptop

The findings show that over-65s significantly outperform younger generations

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The data reveals a clear pattern across age groups, with 11 per cent of those aged 55 to 64 and 10 per cent of 45 to 54-year-olds completing sales within a month.

In fact, the 35 to 44 age bracket showed the slowest performance, with just 2.63 per cent managing to secure quick sales.

Pensioners could benefit from several market advantages, including ownership of more sought-after properties, more realistic pricing approaches, and less complex sales chains.

Many older sellers are downsizing or own their homes outright, eliminating mortgage complications that can slow down transactions for younger buyers.

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"There's a common perception that older homeowners are slow to sell or struggle in a fast-paced market, but our data shows the opposite," director at Good Move Nima Ghasri said.

"Many over-65s are savvy, motivated sellers who know the value of pricing fairly and moving fast."

He added: "That said, it's clear that some are still facing delays, especially those selling bungalows, which can fall into a niche buyer category.

"Downsizing should be a smooth transition, but outdated stock or mismatched demand can create unexpected obstacles."

A row of bungalows

Bungalows are popular housing amongst retirees

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Despite the overall success of older sellers, the research uncovered a notable exception. Bungalows, traditionally popular with retirees, emerged as the slowest-selling property type, with one in five (21 per cent) remaining on the market for more than six months.

This finding highlights a potential challenge for some older homeowners, as bungalows can appeal to a narrower pool of buyers.

The extended selling times for these properties contrast sharply with the rapid sales achieved by many over-65s, suggesting that property type plays a crucial role in determining how quickly homes sell, regardless of the owner's age or market savvy.