"The idea of a ‘forever home’ remains an appealing concept and will always have a certain romance to it, but for many buyers today, life simply moves too fast for permanence to be the goal"
- Glynn Gibb - John D Wood & Co
A new study from Zoopla reveals that younger generations of homeowners are moving away from the traditional idea of a ‘forever home’ in favour of a more flexible approach, often described as the ‘For Now Home.’
The classic ideal of a "forever home," generally defined as a property someone expects to live in for 15-20 years or for life, is losing its relevance among younger buyers.
A striking 63% of homeowners aged 18-34 now say this concept is less important than it was for their parents’ generation. This declining emphasis on permanence is reflected in the fact that nearly half (45%) of this group expect to move home within the next five years, signalling a clear rejection of the notion of staying in one house for life.
Across all age groups, about a third (30%) of British homeowners feel they have yet to find their forever home, rising to 36% in the South East and the East Midlands.
The home as a base, not a vault
While emotional attachment remains strong, most homeowners (88%) see their property primarily as “a place to build a life and memories.” However, the financial role of the home differs across generations.
On average, just 7% of all homeowners view a home purely as “a financial asset that should be leveraged when the market is right.” For 18-34 year olds, this figure more than triples to 23%, reflecting a pragmatic approach to buying, leveraging property for future gains, and moving up the housing ladder, aligned with the ‘Right Now Home’ mindset.
High expectation of movement
This practical approach extends to moving intentions. Almost half (45%) of 18-34 year olds expect to relocate within five years, compared with 28% of 35-54 year olds.
The primary motivations for younger homeowners include:
Desire for a different location, such as being closer to family or switching between rural and urban areas (37%)
Need for a larger home to accommodate growing families or hybrid working (36%)
Seeking financial savings, such as lower mortgage payments or reduced bills (33%)
When moving is cheaper than renovating
Younger buyers are also prioritising potential over perfection. While 49% of all homeowners value the ability to renovate their property, this rises to 82% of 18-34 year olds and 57% of 35-54 year olds. Homes are seen as adaptable, ongoing projects rather than static purchases.
Yet renovation plans are tempered by financial considerations. Almost a third (30%) say the costs of moving, including Stamp Duty and legal fees, deter them, while 39% believe relocating is more financially sensible than staying and funding a major renovation (22%).
“The dream of a forever home hasn't disappeared, but its definition is being completely rewritten by younger generations," comments Daniel Copley, consumer expert at Zoopla. "They are acutely cost-conscious and view their property not as a shrine to permanence, but as a flexible asset that must align with their fast-changing lives."
“The study shows they are planning for a large home and are not afraid to renovate to make it their own, but they are equally ready to move if their home stops meeting their needs. Zoopla is ready to support this new wave of homeowners, whether they are planning their next move in five years or looking to unlock the renovation potential of the home they own right now.”
“The idea of a ‘forever home’ remains an appealing concept and will always have a certain romance to it, but for many buyers today, life simply moves too fast for permanence to be the goal," adds Glynn Gibb, regional director at John D Wood & Co.
"Careers, families and priorities all change, and people are realising their home needs to change with them. Rather than chasing the ‘forever home,’ today’s buyers are focusing on finding the right home for this stage of their life, one that fits their current lifestyle, supports their ambitions for the next few years, and gives them the freedom to move when life calls for it. It’s a more realistic, empowering way to think about homeownership, and it’s an opportunity to keep reassessing what ‘home’ means as life unfolds.”
Nathan Emerson, CEO at Propertymark, comments, “There is a clear generational shift in attitudes towards homeownership. Younger buyers are prioritising flexibility, affordability, and the potential to add value through renovation, rather than aiming for a single ‘forever home’. This mirrors the realities of today’s housing market, where changing job opportunities, lifestyle needs, and financial pressures mean people are moving more frequently and viewing property ownership as both a stepping stone and an investment.
“Many younger homeowners are looking for homes that can evolve with them, properties with renovation potential, access to good transport links, and strong local amenities. However, the market needs to continue to support mobility and affordability, ensuring people can make these transitions without being held back by supply shortages, high transaction costs, or limited mortgage options.
“Estate agents have a key role to play in guiding consumers through these shifting priorities, helping them make informed choices that balance flexibility, financial attentiveness, and long-term aspirations.”
