The impact of President Trump’s new tariff policies is already rippling through the economy—and the housing market is no exception. According to a Redfin-commissioned national survey, 24% of Americans say they’ve canceled major purchase plans, like buying a home, while another 32% are delaying those decisions altogether.
But here’s where it gets interesting: age matters, and younger buyers are responding very differently than older ones.
📊 Key Survey Findings
Redfin partnered with Ipsos to survey 1,004 U.S. adults between April 10–14, 2025. Here’s what they found:
- 24% canceled plans for a major purchase (e.g., home, car)
- 32% are delaying major purchases
- 9% plan to buy sooner than expected
- 8% already made a major purchase ahead of schedule
🧓 Older Buyers Are Pulling Back
Older Americans are the most cautious about making big moves:
- 60% of those aged 55+ say the tariffs make them less likely to make a major purchase this year
- Compared to 54% of people aged 18–34 and 50% of those aged 35–54
- Only 4% of Americans aged 55+ said the tariffs make them more likely to make a big purchase
This group, many of whom are existing homeowners with low mortgage rates, may be less inclined to trade up or downsize in an uncertain economy.
👩💼 Younger Buyers See Opportunity
Meanwhile, first-time buyers and millennials appear more motivated:
- 23% of Americans aged 18–34 say the tariffs make them more likely to buy
- That’s compared to 15% of those aged 35–54, and just 4% of those aged 55+
This suggests a split-market dynamic. While retirees or near-retirees are likely to stay put, younger Americans may jump at lower rates or softening prices—especially if homebuilders and sellers start offering more incentives.
💸 Buyers’ Financial Readiness
Another positive takeaway: many buyers are financially prepared.
- 51% of survey respondents say they have an emergency fund to cover housing payments in a crisis
- 56% of those can cover up to 6 months of mortgage payments
This could soften the blow of any temporary economic turbulence or price corrections in the real estate market.
🏡 What This Means for Real Estate Agents
Here in Los Angeles and across the country, we’re seeing market activity diverge by age and mindset, not just price point. While older buyers hesitate, younger buyers are stepping up—and that’s where agents can add the most value.
Focus on:
- Millennial and Gen Z buyers—offer resources that simplify financing and affordability
- First-time buyer education—host workshops, create guides, or use social to answer common questions
- Targeted messaging—frame current conditions as opportunities rather than obstacles
By aligning with buyers who are ready to act, agents can stay productive and profitable in a cautious but active market.
📞 Contact Abdo Pierre Faissal for unparalleled real estate service.
📧 [email protected] | 📲 310-620-1038
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