How Long do Sellers stay in a Home?

Joan- Knowing how often people are moving is an important statistic for agents. I've had more calls this month than any other year about selling, people are curious if it's feasible. Age range is from 27-35 which I've found interesting. Not too many retirees moving from what I'm experiencing here either.

Interesting facts Joan. I hadn't realized that on average people are staying longer in their homes longer. Although lately we have been working with many baby boomers who have been in their previous homes for over 30 years...

Joan, while working in the Northern Virginia area, people seemed to move every 3-4 yearas.....but that of course is in the big ciities.....seems people stay in their homes longer in my area.  We have been living in our home for seven years now....will see what happens in the next 4 years.

Joan - I can't imagine moving every 4 years! I keep an eye out for homes for sale in my town and there aren't to many. I think people seem to stay in smaller towns longer....at least in my town. However, I've always wanted to live abroad for a couple of years - maybe someday....

Joan, these are very interesting statistics about moving and why potential sellers can't sell quite yet. Thanks for sharing a great post.

Hi Joan, this doesn't surprise me that homeowners are staying in there homes longer, I think buyers, as well, are thinking about staying longer in their new home purchases.

I'm sure in Manhattan the time is less than 11 years, the size of an apartment just forces you to move if you ever start a family or want to upgrade yourself.

The statistics probably vary greatly depending on the area, Joan. I think most people are sitting and waiting for higher prices to come back.

I have noticed this trend here, too, Joan.  There is very little new construction, and most of the people who bought during the boom now have two mortgages to pay off....no money to move.

So interesting that the statistics on how oftem people move has changed from every 4 years to every 11. 

Yes, the average homeowner stays in their home longer but as they age, many want warmer climates and smaller homes.

Joan, it is 3-5 years here in NYC! Many because people just out grow their space in this big city!

Joan, on the Lender side of the business our experience is that the average average homeowner is either buying a new home or refinancing their existing loan every 5 years.  Lately it has been the refinancing side of that equation that has had the most turn over.

Joan, I know that most people are staying in their homes longer now, but my area skews the curve just a bit with many people transferring in and out quickly.  I see many in their homes for only a year or two.

Hi Joan, thanks for sharing the interesting facts.  It depends on the seller's situation, e.g. financial hardship, health issue, relocation because of new position. 

Very interesting fact. So more people are moving to warmer temperature area. Thanks for sharing.

Joan, thanks for the new stats.  In my mind I still had old figure, but sensed it wasn't accurate for today's market.