The Truth About Buying Your First Home in Your 30s, 40s, or later.

Think You Missed Your Window to Buy a Home? Not Even Close.

Let’s be real—buying your first home today looks nothing like it did 30 years ago.

In 2024, the average first-time buyer is 38 years old. Just a few years ago, it was 33. Back in the ‘90s? More like 31. So if you’re in your 30s or 40s and still renting, you might be wondering... Did I wait too long?

The short answer: Not at all.

In fact, you’re right on time—and there are really solid reasons for that, both financially and personally.

Why People Are Buying Later

Research shows that people across the board are hitting life milestones later than they used to. For example:

• The average age of first-time moms is now 30 (it used to be early 20s)

• Just 33% of 30-year-olds own a home today vs. 47% in 1984

• Fewer are getting married in their 20s

• And 72% of renters are now over 30—the highest percentage ever recorded

This isn’t a fluke. Each generation since the boomers has shifted toward doing things on their own timeline. That includes homeownership.

More people are prioritizing careers, flexibility, and financial stability before settling down—and with the current market, that makes sense.

Let's Talk About Cost

Buying a home right now is more expensive than renting—no question.
According to Redfin, you need an income of about $116,000/year to afford the median priced home. Compare that to $64,000 for a typical apartment.

That gap used to be much smaller:

• In 2021, it was a 17% difference

• In 2023, it was 54%

• And now? Over 80%

Why? Prices have gone up faster than rent, rates are still hovering over 6.5%, and inventory is tight—especially in markets like San Diego.

So if you’ve been renting longer than you thought you would, waiting to get your footing, that’s not “falling behind.” That’s being smart.

Why Buying Later Can Be a Huge Win

Here’s the good news: buying later in life actually gives you some serious advantages.

💰 Stronger finances.
You’ve had more time to build income, improve your credit, and save—something most of us couldn’t do in our 20s.

🏡 Clearer priorities.
You probably know exactly what you don’t want in a home now. You’ve lived in enough places to know what truly matters.

📈 More options tailored to you.
Builders and sellers are paying attention—there are more homes on the market now that appeal to lifestyle-first buyers in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.

Final Thought

There’s this outdated idea that if you’re renting in your 30s, 40s, or even 50s, you’re behind. But in this market? You’re just following a different path—and often, a smarter one.

When you do buy, you’ll do it with more clarity, more confidence, and better timing for you. And that’s what really matters.

When you’re ready, I’m here to guide you through it—no pressure, just good advice.