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The Daily Insight

What retirees look for in a home?

Author

Ava Robinson

Published Feb 21, 2026

Here are some of the top factors to consider as you choose a home for your retirement years.

  • Mobility and accessibility.
  • Easy, walkable access to the community.
  • Minimal renovations required.
  • Minimal yard work required.
  • Plenty of local amenities.
  • Bonus factor: Beautiful weather.

At what age do people sell their homes?

Among home sellers, those aged 37 to 51 years make up the largest generation of sellers at 29 percent, followed by sellers 62 to 70 at 21 percent. Consistent with past reports, sellers 51 years and younger tend to trade up to a larger and more expensive home when they buy.

Is it better to sell your home or rent when you retire?

Unfortunately, there is a downside to selling your home and renting when you retire. When you’re paying off a mortgage, you’re investing the bulk of your monthly housing costs into an asset that you own. When you rent, all of that money goes into someone else’s pocket. That’s why a number of retirees decide to buy rather than rent when downsizing.

What’s the value of a house when you retire?

According to Forbes, “The average retiring American has roughly twice as much value in home equity ($200,000) as they do in their other savings.” A house is a fantastic appreciating asset to have, but it’s not exactly liquid.

How old should you be to sell your house and rent?

You’re Wondering: ‘Should I Sell My House and Rent When I Retire?’ A recent study by the National Association of Realtors found that around 54% of home sellers are over the age of 52. And those sellers aged 52+ are typically buying smaller homes.

What happens when you sell your house and rent?

Selling and Renting Means You’ll No Longer Own an Appreciating Asset When you’re paying off a mortgage, you’re investing the bulk of your monthly housing costs into an asset that you own. When you rent, all of that money goes into someone else’s pocket. That’s why a number of retirees decide to buy rather than rent when downsizing.