Helping older homeowners to downsize could play a critical role in easing the UK’s housing crisis, according to new research by the Open Property Data Association (OPDA), which is calling for faster, more transparent digital processes to make moving home simpler.

The report reveals a clear appetite among older homeowners to right-size, with 34% of those aged 65 to 74 who bought in the past five years opting to downsize.

Among buyers aged over 75, the figure rises to 47%. However, transaction delays are proving a major deterrent. More than half (55%) of those aged 65 to 74 said the length of the transaction process is the biggest barrier to moving, increasing to 68% for those aged 75 and over.

BURNING DESIRE

“There is a clear desire among older homeowners to move, but the current system feels too slow and expensive to make it a viable option,” said Maria Harris, chair of OPDA.

“In addition to the government’s ambition to build, we need to get smarter about using what we’ve got and that starts by removing barriers to moving.”

The organisation argues that housing policy must go beyond new build targets to consider how best to make use of existing stock. Many over-65s live in significantly under-occupied properties, and making it easier for them to move into more suitable homes could release thousands of larger homes for younger families.

TAX CUT AN UNLIKELY OPTION

While stamp duty is frequently blamed for discouraging older movers, OPDA says that with public finances under pressure, a tax cut may be unrealistic. Instead, it is urging government and industry to act on a more achievable and impactful front – improving the moving experience itself.

Digital Property Packs, which provide upfront access to key property information, are presented as a practical solution. OPDA’s research found high levels of support for the concept, with 77% of homeowners aged 65 to 74 saying they sounded like a good idea, and 70% saying they would be happy to use one. Among those aged 75 and above, 70% said the same, and two-thirds (66%) would be prepared to use the packs.

Digital packs allow buyers and sellers to securely access, verify and share property data before a transaction progresses.

These digital packs allow buyers and sellers to securely access, verify and share property data before a transaction progresses, helping to reduce delays and fall-throughs while increasing confidence.

“There is an assumption that older people are resistant to change or digital solutions but our research clearly shows that isn’t the case,” said Harris. “Digitisation isn’t just for the younger market; many established homeowners are actively seeking it.”

“Digitising property data and improving the moving experience isn’t just good for buyers and sellers; it’s good for the whole system. If we make moving easier, we’ll help unlock the right homes for the right people at the right time.”

LESS STRESSFUL

Property commentator Phil Spencer, founder of advice platform Move iQ, added his backing. “I’ve seen time and again that many older homeowners would happily move if the process wasn’t so daunting,” he said.

“We need to make it easier, quicker and less stressful, especially for those who’ve lived in the same home for decades.

“Digital tools like property packs could make all the difference in giving people the confidence to make that move, which in turn frees up homes for the next generation.”

OPDA is urging regulators, ministers and the wider property sector to commit to more seamless digital infrastructure, enabling older homeowners to move more easily and in doing so, helping to ease pressure on the broader housing system.