Ever feel like it’s taking people longer to buy their first home? You’re not imagining things. According to the 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers from the National Association of REALTORS®, the median age of a first-time homebuyer has climbed to 40.

That’s the oldest it’s ever been—and a big jump from the 20-somethings who were buying back in the 1980s.

So, what’s really going on here? And more importantly, what can you do if you’re trying to buy your first place in today’s market?

Let’s unpack it.

Buying Your First Home Is Tougher—You’re Not Alone

Only 21% of all home purchases in 2025 were by first-time buyers—that’s the lowest share ever recorded. Historically, that number hovered around 40%, so this is a big shift.

The reality? People are waiting longer, saving more, and often carrying heavier financial responsibilities than buyers from previous generations. It’s not just a feeling—breaking into the market is harder than it used to be.

Why the Gap Between First-Time and Repeat Buyers Keeps Growing

There’s a widening divide in the market, and a lot of it comes down to cash and equity.

Repeat buyers—people selling one home to buy another—are typically older, more established, and have real estate equity working in their favor. In fact:

• The median age of repeat buyers is now 62

• 30% of them paid all cash for their next home

• They put down a median of 23%, compared to 10% for first-timers

That kind of financial strength gives repeat buyers a serious edge, especially in competitive markets like ours here in Brevard County, where homes are still selling close to asking price. Buyers in 2025 paid about 99% of the list price—so there’s not a lot of wiggle room.

What’s Making It So Hard for First-Time Buyers?

Several major factors are making it tough to break in:

• Mortgage rates are higher than in recent years—averaging 6.69%—which keeps monthly payments steep.

• Inventory is tight, and most homes hitting the market are at higher price points. Starter homes are few and far between.

• Saving is harder. Rent, student loans, and the cost of living make it difficult to stash away a down payment. Many buyers are tapping into 401(k)s or stock portfolios to help bridge the gap.

Put it all together, and it’s no wonder first-time buyers are getting older—it’s taking longer to save, longer to qualify, and longer to find the right fit.

Why Repeat Buyers Have the Upper Hand

Here’s the thing: repeat buyers have time on their side. They’ve usually owned their home for 11 years or more, which means they’ve built up serious equity. That equity becomes a powerful tool when it’s time to move—whether it’s a bigger home, a better location, or downsizing with cash in hand.

Plus, they’ve been through the process before. They know how to navigate negotiations, jump quickly on a listing, and make strong offers. That experience matters.

If You’re a First-Time Buyer, Here’s How to Get Ahead

Good news—you can buy a home, even in this market. You just need the right tools and strategy. Start here:

✅ Look into down payment assistance – There are local and national programs designed to help first-time buyers cover upfront costs. Some are grants. Some are forgivable loans. Either way, it’s worth exploring.

✅ Ask about rate buydowns or creative financing – Some lenders offer 2-1 buydowns or adjustable-rate options to ease you into your mortgage with lower payments upfront.

✅ Check out new construction – Builders often offer incentives that traditional sellers can’t match—things like closing cost help, interest rate reductions, or custom upgrades.

✅ Think multi-gen – Fourteen percent of 2025 buyers purchased multi-generational homes, often pooling resources with family to make it work financially and logistically.

✅ Work with an agent who knows the local market – Nearly 9 out of 10 buyers in 2025 used a real estate professional, and the top reason was to find the right home and negotiate a deal that worked. In a competitive market like Brevard, that kind of guidance can make a big difference.

The Bottom Line

Buying your first home might look different in 2025, but it’s far from impossible. Yes, the average first-time buyer is a bit older, but that also means more financially ready, more focused, and more committed to making smart choices.

If you’re hoping to buy in the next year or two, let’s start the conversation early. I’ll walk you through the local Brevard County options, connect you with trusted lenders, and help you feel confident at every step—from pre-approval to move-in day.

Have questions or just want to talk through what’s possible? Reach out any time—I’m here to help.

Sources: BAM, NAR