Three-quarters of UK housing wealth held by over 50s

Research from international property advisor, Savills, has revealed that three-quarters of Britain’s housing wealth is held by older homeowners.

According to the research, homes owned by the over 50s account for a total value of £2.8tn.  The over 65s alone own 43% of that equity and are worth £1.6tn.

With younger people finding it harder and harder to get on the housing ladder, the research reveals that the under 35s account for less than £6 in every £100 of equity held by owner-occupiers.

The research also reveals that housing wealth in London is more evenly distributed across the different age groups of owner-occupiers, however levels of home ownership are significantly below the national average at 48% in 2017 according to the English Housing Survey, compared to 63% across England).

In the capital, the over 50s account for 65% of housing wealth held by owner-occupiers.  The under 35s own 11%, much higher than the 6% national average.

‘Our analysis shows that there’s truth in the old stereotype of affluent households selling up in London for a move to the country,’ says Lawrence Bowles, Savills research analyst.  ‘The figures for the South West of England are evidence of the trend for older homeowners making a lifestyle move, making the region arguably the country’s largest naturally occurring retirement community.’

‘Unlike many younger households, older homeowners have huge buying power and a range of choices, particularly those in the South and East,” says Bowles.

Where older homeowners have benefitted from years of rising house prices, the researchers expect this to slow down significantly, which will make it more difficult for younger people to change the status quo.

‘Historically, high levels of house price inflation have contributed to the equity of existing homeowners, but younger generations are unlikely to enjoy such a boost to their wealth. We’re forecasting house price growth averaging just 14% over the next five years, half the 28% growth seen over the last five.’

But this analysis considers only those lucky enough to own their own home. Older households in the private rented sector face less certain housing costs without a store of housing equity to fall back on.’

Savills findings is below.

Source: Savills Research