Boomers are once again demonstrating their strong financial position in the U.S. housing market. Current data reveals that people aged 60 to 78 now account for a significant 42% of home purchases, leaving millennials with just 29% of the market. This isn’t merely about numbers; it’s a testament to years of hard work, careful financial planning, and smart choices. A striking detail is how boomers finance their home purchases. Over half of those aged 70 to 78 have recently bought homes outright, in cash, and about 40% of younger boomers have done the same. This move isn’t simply about convenience; it’s a strategic move to avoid the high costs and complexity of today’s mortgage market, a burden that puts significant strain on younger buyers. In stark contrast, more than 90% of millennials rely on financing. With mortgage rates consistently above 6% and home prices on the rise, many have even had to seek financial assistance from family—27% of millennials aged 26 to 34 report such assistance. Meanwhile, boomers tend to make down payments in excess of 28%, compared to an average of just 10% for younger millennials and 14% for older millennials. As housing market expert Jessica Lautz observes, "Older millennials are buying larger, more modern homes with larger down payments than their younger counterparts." This underscores how years spent building home equity have provided boomers with a significant advantage, while younger buyers are forced to contend with high borrowing costs. The story extends beyond mere buying trends. First-time homebuyers now represent only 24% of the market—a decline from 32% last year—with younger millennials comprising the bulk of that group. Generation Z remains a minor presence at just 3% of buyers, though it is noteworthy that 30% of these young buyers are single women, reflecting changing family dynamics. Gen X continues to claim 24% of the market and is increasingly favoring multigenerational home purchases. The growing appeal of living with aging parents, adult children, and other family members has seen such transactions rise to 17% overall—and to 21% among Gen X buyers. This trend combines smart financial choices with a renewed emphasis on traditional family values, serving as a buffer against rising living expenses. The numbers paint a clear picture: as of Q4 2024, baby boomers control roughly 51% of U.S. household wealth, dwarfing millennials’ 10% and Gen X’s little over 25%. Beyond their formidable buying power, boomers also dominate the selling sphere, accounting for over half of all home sellers. Their tendency to remain in homes for over a decade, and sometimes up to 16 years, underscores the enduring benefits of steady equity accumulation. Real estate agents have become invaluable advisors in this evolving market, assisting 88% of buyers. Younger millennials, in particular, lean heavily on the recommendations of family and friends—90% confiding in trusted agents—while older buyers tend to stick with professionals they have relied on for years. Boomers' success underscores the value of careful, long-term financial planning, with their ability to pay in cash highlighting the rewards of long-term equity growth. For younger buyers, embracing these principles and refining their money management strategies is crucial to overcoming today’s market challenges and realizing their own version of the American Dream.