04/29/25

Ask anyone in real estate who their favorite group of clients is, and you’ll probably get the same answer – even if most of us claim we don’t play favorites. There’s still something extra special about working with first-time homebuyers. But do you really know who makes up this demographic in 2025?

Today’s first-time buyers are typically older with higher incomes than ever before, but that doesn’t mean the journey to homeownership is any easier for them right now. In fact, many argue that family obligations, debt, and a competitive market make today’s circumstances more difficult.

So, what should we all know about serving this key demographic? Here are a few things:

They’re still looking for financial guidance. Today’s buyers may look like they’re in a great position to buy, if you just go by the numbers. However, they still need – and want – help finding their way home. Plus, homes continue to get more expensive, and down payments have risen. One more thing to know: The median down payment for first-time buyers was 9%, the highest since 1997.
Be ready to offer resources that explain the full spectrum of homeownership costs, including taxes, insurance and maintenance. Remind them that you – and any real estate professional they meet along the way – are there to answer any questions they have.

They’re older than ever before. Although we’ve been talking about catering to Gen-Z clients for a while now, the average age of a first-time buyer nationally is 38 years old, which makes that person a true millennial. Just how much has that figure changed? In the 1980s, the average age of this group was a person in their late 20s.

They may need your emotional support. Between juggling families and careers, buying a home in the current market can get stressful. Find ways to be flexible in your communication and make sure you’ve invested in the digital tools used to reach this demographic better. Then, make their experience with you even smoother.

They should be reminded about fraud. We’ve mentioned this before, but a recent survey from CertifID confirmed that first-time homebuyers are three times more likely to fall for a wire fraud scam. Why? Because they don’t know how the process should work, or because these cybercriminals are so prevalent. Change that by having conversations early and often about wiring instructions, day of closing expectations, and more.

As the journey to homeownership becomes increasingly complex, real estate professionals play a pivotal role in guiding clients of all kinds through the process. When you need a title company that gets this – and so much more – reach out to us. We’re here for you anytime.