Generation X is redefining low-maintenance living. With the oldest Gen Xers now in their late 50s, they bring fresh expectations to the closing table—along with unique financial constraints that influence their home buying decisions.
A comprehensive survey sponsored by Epcon Communities and conducted by Second Wave Research, capturing the preferences of 850 home buyers aged 45 and older, reveals compelling insights into what this generation prioritizes. From innovative service features to specific design elements, they envision a lifestyle unlike the Baby Boomer generation. This article explores what Gen Xers truly value in their next home purchase.
Understanding Generation X’s Financial Context
Generation X home buyers represent a demographic shift in the community landscape, bringing important financial considerations to the forefront. Gen Xers currently possess roughly half the net worth of Baby Boomers while carrying substantially higher debt loads. This sobering reality directly impacts what Gen Xers can afford in a home purchase.
Consequently, these economic constraints are reshaping price and feature expectations in low-maintenance communities. Financially speaking, some Gen Xers may seek creative financing options that enable homeownership without the substantial down payments many cannot afford.
Key Home Features and Preferences for Future Home Buyers
According to Second Wave Research’s study, regardless of age or generation, today’s home buyers highly value features like private outdoor space, abundant natural light, low HOA fees, low maintenance, accessibility and universal design, and walking trails. However, a few additional features are even more important for the Gen X generation, including a moving concierge and multi-generational suites.
Abundant natural light & private outdoor space
Nearly 90% of the survey respondents valued natural light inside their homes, revealing they understand the positive impact it can have on their mental and physical health. Natural light is one feature of biophilic design, an architectural approach that brings nature indoors. Studies show that biophilic design improves mental health, reduces stress, improves productivity and speeds healing. Our homes in Winfrey Estates, Tomball's only 55+ active adult community, promote the connection between home and nature by offering designs that include rooms with large windows, providing natural light and a full view of an outdoor garden courtyard.
For the next ten years, new home buyers will continue to value their private outdoor space, according to the study, which makes a home in Winfrey Estates a natural option. Our courtyards provide space for homeowners to relax, enjoy nature and entertain friends or family. And pet owners prefer a personal space for their fur babies over a communal dog park.
Multi-generational suite design
The number of U.S. adults who live in a multi-generational household has risen steadily since the 1970s. According to the Pew Research Council, in 2021, almost 60 million U.S. residents, or 18% of the total population, lived with multiple generations under one roof. In light of this data, it’s no surprise that almost 70% of Gen X survey respondents expressed interest in a multi-generational suite in their home design–almost twice the number of older Baby Boomers.
At Winfrey Estates, you can choose to add a spacious bonus suite to many of our home designs for even more flexibility. Homeowners can use bonus suites for multi-generational living, but they also serve as home offices, game rooms, guest suites, workout spaces or art studios.
Moving concierge service benefits
Just the thought of sorting and packing to heavy lifting and unpacking overwhelms some people. Consequently, over 80% of Gen Xers surveyed expressed interest in a moving concierge to help ease the transition from one home to the next. And, since a moving concierge also serves as a logistical coordinator who addresses both rational and emotional aspects of a move, this service may be the secret to encouraging potential home buyers to make the move to a new home.
Walking trails on the rise
Whether you walk, run or ride a bike for exercise, a walking trail provides a space to pursue those activities. And interestingly, Gen X survey respondents prioritized this feature over other amenities. When coupled with the community clubhouse found in Winfrey Estates, you have room to run both inside and out.
Single-level living
Home buyers of all stripes look for single-level living for various reasons. Not only do stairs take up valuable floor space, they make moving furniture a challenge. And, they require going up to bed or down with a basket of laundry. Single-level homes allow for open floor plans and abundant natural light, and they’re easier to heat and cool. According to Second Wave Research’s survey, Gen Xers see these valuable benefits and want them in their new homes.
Low fees & low-maintenance homes
No matter which generation a home buyer is born into, they prioritize low HOA fees and low-maintenance living. When lawn mowing and leaf raking are taken off your plate, you have more time to pursue things that interest you. When the fees are low, you can more readily fund those passion pursuits. Survey respondents indicate that they’ll always look for these features in low-maintenance communities.
Winfrey Estates
You don’t have to be a Gen Xer to discover the signature lifestyle of Winfrey Estates. Everyone enjoys luxury single-level homes that blend seamlessly with resort-style amenities. Located in Tomball, TX, our thoughtfully designed floor plans with 2-4 bedrooms ranging from 1,519 to 2,826 square feet offer the perfect options for your personality and lifestyle.
When you include HOA services that typically cover lawn care and snow removal, you'll find that the lock and leave lifestyle is just the icing on the cake. Ready to explore a life where lawn maintenance takes a backseat to moments of joy? Connect with us to learn how a home in Winfrey Estates can transform your life.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Jalycia Golden at 346.762.1864 or jalycia@roc-homes.com
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