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Older home sellers often face lower returns from off-market and condition issues
The typical home seller is 64, and research cited by HousingWire links lower returns for sellers in their 70s to off-market sales and property condition problems.
HousingWire argues that older homeowners selling long-held residences often need more guidance, clarity, and time, rather than faster closings. The outlet points to National Association of Realtors data and other research showing that sellers in their 70s can see lower returns tied to off-market and condition issues.
The piece says that in a slower housing market, where mortgage rates are again above 7%, sellers can face more price resistance, longer marketing periods, and pressure to accept certainty. HousingWire adds that for older owners, the industry’s push for “quick and easy” can end up being costly, particularly if guidance and exposure are not adequate.
HousingWire also cites NAR’s 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, saying the typical seller is now 64 years old. It urges agents to prioritize consent, full exposure, and support networks so sellers are not steered toward speed at the expense of better outcomes.