Did you know that approximately 37 million people in the U.S. switch jobs annually? That’s a staggering 3 million individuals every month. What’s more interesting is that the average age of a job switch is 39. This seemingly simple fact holds powerful insights for those thinking about selling their homes.
Hi, I’m Melissa Shaw, and I’ve been a trusted real estate advisor for over two decades. Today, I want to dig into why understanding this trend can help you, as a seller, prepare your home to attract the largest pool of potential buyers—millennials. Let’s break it down.
MILLENNIALS: THE BIGGEST BUYING POWER IN U.S. HISTORY
At age 39, people are not only switching jobs; they’re also at peak home-buying age. Why does this matter? Because the millennial generation—the largest cohort of buyers in U.S. history—is currently in their late 20s to early 40s.
This group represents a massive wave of buyers entering (or moving up in) the housing market. Millennials are value-conscious and often motivated by significant life transitions, such as job changes, growing families, or wanting a better quality of life. If your home fits the needs of this demographic, you could be positioning yourself for an incredible selling opportunity.
WHAT A JOB CHANGE REALLY MEANS FOR SELLERS
Career transitions often come with relocation or lifestyle upgrades. While not every 39-year-old changing jobs is also making a move, there is a strong connection between major career milestones and life decisions, like buying or selling a home. Here’s why:
* Relocation Needs: Switching jobs often results in a move to a new city or neighborhood. Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA, are particularly sought after because they offer a blend of outdoor living, amenities, excellent schools, and a community feel—factors millennials prioritize.
* Upgrading Homes: Many buyers in their late 30s or early 40s are upsizing or looking for homes in neighborhoods that cater to active, family-centric lifestyles. If your home has great walkability, nearby hiking trails, or access to excellent schools, it’s a major selling point.
* Tight Inventory: With fewer homes on the market, your property has a higher chance of catching the attention of job-switchers who need to move quickly.
LOWER INTEREST RATES AND MARKET TRENDS
Current market predictions suggest we could see a decline in interest rates in the coming months. Lower rates mean more buying power for millennials and other potential buyers. When you combine this with a low inventory market, as a seller, you’re sitting on an incredible opportunity.
These factors create a “perfect storm” scenario: increasing buyer demand (especially from millennials entering their prime buying years) and an environment where homes are poised to sell quickly and for competitive prices.
SELLING? NOW IS THE TIME TO PREPARE
If selling your home is on the horizon in 2024, this is your call to action. Right now is “crunch time”—the perfect moment to get everything in order for a successful sale.
Here’s how to be proactive:
* Strategize Your Move: Get ahead of the competition by identifying your timeline and making necessary home updates.
* Highlight Buyer Needs: Focus on features that today’s buyers—particularly millennials—care about, like energy efficiency, home offices, great kitchens, and proximity to outdoor spaces.
* Partner with a Trusted Advisor: Discover how my two decades of experience and innovative marketing strategies can ensure your home is presented at its absolute best.
LET’S CREATE YOUR PLAN TODAY
If you’re ready to secure the best outcome for your home sale, let’s talk. Together, we can craft a strategy that aligns with your goals and attracts the right buyers. Whether you’re looking to move closer to family, find a second home, or upsize, I’m here to help make the process seamless and profitable.
Book a consultation with me, and let’s explore what’s next for you. Click this link: https://calendly.com/lewisrealtors/30min-seller-phone-consultation
