Why Many Are Delaying Homeownership — and How You Can Move Forward Now

by Katie Ragland

Why Many Are Delaying Homeownership — and How You Can Move Forward Now

Opening question:
Why are so many potential buyers putting off major life milestones until they own a home?

Snippet answer:
A recent survey found that about 71% of aspiring homeowners are postponing big decisions—such as marriage, children, career changes or living independently—until they feel financially ready to buy. Florida Realtors

What the data is telling us

According to the Florida Realtors article summarizing the Coldwell Banker “2025 American Dream Report,” 71% of aspiring home‑buyers say they’re delaying at least one major life milestone until they can afford a home. Florida Realtors
Among respondents:

18% are delaying marriage or having children until they can buy. Florida Realtors
17% said they’re holding off on career changes or getting a pet. Florida Realtors
More than half of aspiring buyers expect their first home to come when they’re 40 or older. Florida Realtors
What this tells you as a buyer today: you’re not alone—and the behavioral shift is real.

Why this trend matters for you

Delaying homeownership isn’t just a personal decision—it’s affecting how people move, save, invest and prepare. For example:

Buyers are more likely to live with family longer, move to more affordable areas or buy a smaller home than originally planned. Florida Realtors+1
The “perfect home” may look different now: less about ideal size/location, more about financial readiness and long‑term flexibility.
Since many are waiting, they may enter the market when competition, pricing or interest rates shift again—so getting educated early gives you an advantage.

In your market on the Gulf Coast, which tends to attract a range of age groups and lifestyles (from first‑time buyers to second‑home seekers), that means there are opportunities for you to take steps now rather than waiting for “someday.”

3 Smart steps you can take now

Get clear on what “ready to buy” really means for you
- Review your budget: monthly payment, taxes, insurance, maintenance.
- Understand down‑payment, closing costs, and how your market behaves locally.
- Avoid the trap of “waiting until everything’s perfect” — financial readiness is more about stability and claritythan perfection.
Work with a professional who knows your area and path
- As your REALTOR®, I, Katie Ragland, know the Gulf Coast market and can help you map out a step‑by‑step plan tailored to your timeline, financial profile and home‑buying goals.
- I’ll also keep you informed of local shifts—new listings, price changes, interest‑rate movements—that can impact when and how you buy.
Join my next free Gulf Coast Homebuyer Webinar
- I offer a free webinar designed specifically for Gulf Coast buyers: we’ll walk through current affordability realities, local market dynamics, financing basics and how to transition from “saving for the future” to “buying now.”
- Secure your spot here: https://buyingwithkatie.realestatewebinars.org.
- Whether you plan to buy in 6 months or 3 years, this webinar gives you the knowledge to act confidently instead of waiting and watching.

Final takeaway

While many buyers are choosing to delay major life moves until they own a home, the smart move is to plan now and act accordingly rather than simply wait for the “right time.” With the right preparation and expertise, you can position yourself ahead of the curve.
If you’re ready to shift from “watching” to “buying,” let’s talk.
— Katie Ragland, REALTOR® • Real Broker, LLC

Call to Action:
Ready to take the next step?