Over-55s are putting off their house moves due to shortage of bungalows
Study reveals why older homeowners are hesitant to move
- 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.