Study reveals why older homeowners are hesitant to move

23 Sep 2025 • 2:06 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • There are calls to reintroduce bungalows as research indicates many over-55s desire one for their next property move.
  • A survey found that 14 per cent of homeowners aged 55-plus wish to move but are hindered by factors such as stress, lack of suitable homes, and reluctance to leave their community.
  • The research, conducted by HomeOwners Alliance, revealed that 38 per cent of over-55s would prefer a bungalow, yet new bungalow registrations have plummeted from 11 per cent in 1990 to just 1 per cent in 2024.
  • Paula Higgins of HomeOwners Alliance stated that too many older homeowners feel trapped in unsuitable homes due to a lack of appropriate alternatives.
  • A McCarthy Stone spokesperson highlighted a “critical shortage” of bungalows, emphasising their importance for independent living and freeing up larger family homes.

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