What Homebuyers Want: How Different Generations are Shaping the Market

Whether you are a property investor or a homebuyer, understanding what homebuyers are looking for has never been more crucial.

As homebuyers make up around 70% of our housing markets, they are the ones that drive property price growth.

With spring now in full swing, new research by Domain reveals that today's buyers aren't just searching for a house—they're searching for a home that meets their unique generational needs and lifestyle preferences.

From Gen Z to Baby Boomers, each group is redefining what makes a property desirable, and the key trend this season is “Social Connection.”

1. Gen Z: the rise of the community-driven first-home buyer

As the youngest group entering the property market, Gen Z (those born roughly between 1997 and 2012) are bringing fresh, tech-savvy perspectives.

Many of them are first-time buyers and, unsurprisingly, they have distinct priorities compared to older generations.

Gen Z buyers are drawn to urban hubs and vibrant neighbourhoods that offer a sense of community.

They want walkability, local cafes, green spaces, and access to public transport.

But it’s not just about convenience; this generation craves connection.

They're looking for places where they can interact with like-minded people, often preferring townhouses or apartments in areas that promote social interaction.

For them, home isn't just a place to sleep—it's a hub for their lifestyle, and they value proximity to work, social venues, and entertainment.

Developers and sellers looking to appeal to Gen Z should highlight local amenities and community-oriented features, such as co-working spaces, communal gardens, or nearby social hubs.

2. Millennials: flexibility and lifestyle over size

Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) are now well into their home-buying years, often with young families in tow.

While previous generations might have been all about square footage, Millennials are prioritizing lifestyle, flexibility, and sustainability.

This group is looking for homes that can adapt to their evolving needs—think spaces that can transition from home offices to playrooms or guest bedrooms.

Open floor plans, multi-functional spaces, and energy-efficient features are high on their list.

They are drawn to areas that support a balanced lifestyle, with easy access to parks, schools, and lifestyle amenities.

Social connection is also critical for Millennials, but it’s more about community engagement—local farmers' markets, family-friendly cafes, and neighbourhood groups.

They want to feel part of a community that shares their values, whether that’s sustainability, fitness, or simply a safe and welcoming environment for their kids.

3. Gen X: privacy and proximity to amenities

Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980) are typically established professionals or business owners, often juggling the responsibilities of raising children and caring for aging parents.

For this group, the ideal home offers a balance of privacy and convenience.

Gen X buyers are looking for properties that provide ample space for their families while being close to key amenities like schools, shopping centres, and healthcare facilities.

While they value social connection, they also appreciate a sense of privacy—homes with backyards, secure fencing, and enough room to entertain friends and family without feeling cramped.

This generation is also heavily focused on property investment, viewing their home as not just a place to live but a strategic asset in their broader wealth-building plans.

Homes that offer the potential for value growth, whether through location or potential for renovation, are particularly appealing.

4. Baby Boomers: downsizing with style and connection

Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) are at a stage where downsizing, or “rightsizing” as they like to call it,  is often on the cards, but they aren’t willing to compromise on comfort or style.

This generation is looking for homes that provide a high standard of living with less maintenance, often preferring modern apartments or townhouses in vibrant, well-connected communities.

Social connection remains vital, especially as many Boomers seek to maintain an active lifestyle post-retirement.

While some older Boomers are attracted to developments that offer communal facilities such as pools, gyms, and social clubs, where they can meet new people and stay engaged almost all are attracted by proximity to cultural amenities, cafes, and healthcare services is a big draw, making urban areas and coastal towns popular choices.

Boomers are less likely to compromise on location—they want to stay close to the action but within a community that feels safe, friendly, and accommodating to their needs.

Bringing it all together: the new social connection

Across all generations, one clear theme is emerging: buyers want more than just a home—they want a community.

Whether it's a bustling urban precinct for Gen Z, family-friendly neighbourhoods for Millennials, private yet connected spaces for Gen X, or stylish, low-maintenance options for Boomers, the concept of social connection is at the heart of their decisions.

As a property investor, you should be looking for a home that will have continued strong appeal to a wide range of owner-occupiers and tenants.

Even though you’re not planning to sell your property, it is will be home buyers that drive the value of properties similar to yours giving you the capital growth you’re looking for.

Showcasing local amenities, community engagement opportunities, and spaces that foster connection will be key to capturing the attention of today’s buyers.

As we move through spring and beyond, the focus on social connection looks set to shape the Australian property landscape for years to come.

About Leanne Spring Leanne is a highly experienced Buyers Agent in the Brisbane Real Estate market. Leanne became a passionate lover of property in 2001. Since then, both professionally and personally, she has been involved in all aspects of property including purchasing, negotiating, renovating, and selling.