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Rise of the “Forever Homeowner” as more over 55s decide to stay put but 2.9 million still plan to downsize
One in four homeowners over 55 in UK now plan to downsize – a drop of 200,000 since 2018. Over 55s elect to stay put as they prioritise community and space following Covid-19 lockdowns.
25 Aug 2021
The number of homeowners over 55 and looking to downsize in the near future has dropped by 200,000 in the last three years, according to research by Legal & General Financial Advice [1].
The latest study shows that potential downsizers now make up nearly a quarter (24%) of all households aged 55 and over, amounting to 2.9 million homes. When Legal & General last analysed the market, in 2018, this figure stood at over a quarter (26%) of households, meaning there were then 3.1 million potential houses to be sold. According to the Office of National Statistics, the total property wealth amongst the over 50s is estimated to be £3.8 trillion [2], with three quarters (74%) of those aged 55 and over in the UK owning their own home [3].
The drop in over 55’s considering downsizing means that over the course of the last three years, there has been a growing trend in “Forever Homeowners” who now want to stay put. The 2.9 million older households who may sell their home still hold considerable property wealth, with the current value of the housing stock in Great Britain standing at £767 billion, however this is a drop from £938 billion when the analysis last took place [4].
Sense of community
When asked why their plans had changed, the main reason amongst homeowners aged over 55 was that they don’t want to leave the community they live in, with the Covid-19 pandemic further emphasising the importance of having friends and family close by. The lockdown resulted in us spending more time in our homes than ever before, which has clearly influenced many of this group’s decision not to downsize. One in four (24%) said they have enjoyed having more space during lockdown, and don’t want to give that up, while a further one in ten (13%) deciding to invest in their current home rather than move on.
Awaiting clarity
While some “Forever Homeowners” have made their mind up not to sell, others impacted by the pandemic are keen to reassess their decision in the near future. Nearly a quarter of over 55’s who haven’t sold their home stated that they would still consider downsizing but want to see how their financial situation develops before deciding (12%) or are uncertain about the housing market currently (10%).
Sara McLeish, CEO Legal & General Financial Advice “The impact of Covid-19 has clearly changed the mindset of many older homeowners, and we can see there has been an uplift in those who want to keep hold of their home. Over time, priorities can change, and it is only natural that over the course of the 16 months people have grown closer to their local community, valued having family nearby and enjoyed having the space to relax while in lockdown.“Of course, the decision to move home is a big one, particularly in later life, and there are practical considerations, as well as emotional ones. Our research suggests many over 55s are still open to the idea of moving, but are mulling things over before making any decisions, so we may see a shift in stance now that lockdown has eased.
“A property is often our most valuable asset and deciding not to downsize presents a potentially difficult situation if the funds are one day required to supplement retirement, or gift money to a family member. For those who don’t want to move, unlocking some of the equity tied up in their housing could therefore prove a huge help, particularly when the time comes to make a home fit for older age. While this may be a lifeline for some, for anyone thinking about this route, it’s important to consider all of your options and seek proper advice before doing so.”
[1] Opinium Research ran a series of online interviews among a panel of 2,000 UK adults, of which 603 were homeowners aged 55+, from the 23rd July to the 27th July 2021.
[2] Office for National Statistics, Wealth and Assets Survey
[3] Office for National Statistics, English Housing Survey 2019-20
[4] Last Time Buyer Report 2018
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Notes to editors
Established in 1836, Legal & General is one of the UK’s leading financial services groups and a major global investor, with £1.2 trillion in total assets under management (as at FY23) of which c40% (circa £0.5 trillion) is international.
We have a highly synergistic business model, which continues to drive strong returns. We are a leading international player in Institutional Retirement, in Retail Savings and Protection, and in both public and private markets through our Asset Management division. Across the Group, we are committed to responsible investing and dedicated to serving the long-term savings and investment needs of customers and society.
As at 7 June 2024, we estimate the Group’s Solvency II coverage ratio to be 224%.
As at 11 June 2024, Legal & General has a market capitalisation of £14.6 billion.
Legal & General Retail Retirement’s mission is to help its customers lead longer, healthier, happier lives. We believe everyone should be able to have a ‘more colourful retirement’. The Division comprises the Group’s retirement savings and income, later life lending and care solutions businesses. In 2020, LGRR wrote £910 million of annuity premiums and issued £791 million of lifetime and retirement interest only mortgages.
*at 31 Jun 2021