Baby Boomers Empowered by Home Equity in 2026 Market

Baby boomers (ages 61-79) dominate the U.S. real estate market, making up 42% of buyers and 55% of sellers, leveraging record-high home equity. Median home prices reached $408,800, boosting homeowner wealth by $128,100 over six years. First-time buyers dropped to 21%, the lowest since 1981, as affordability and limited inventory challenge younger buyers. Older millennials succeed as move-up buyers, often relying on financial help for down payments.