"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"
- Maria Harris - Open Property Data Association
With housebuilding failing to keep pace with demand, improving how the UK uses its existing homes is becoming more urgent. A new report by the Open Property Data Association (OPDA) argues that making it easier for older homeowners to downsize could be key to unlocking underused housing stock, particularly family homes.
The research shows that a large number of homeowners in later life are already making moves. Among those aged 65 to 74 who bought a home in the past five years, 34% downsized. That figure increases to 47% for homeowners aged 75 and over. Yet many still face hurdles when trying to move. 55% of homeowners aged 65–74 cite long transaction times as the biggest barrier, and among those 75 and older, that number rises to 68%.
“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.”
Although housing debates often focus on new-build targets, official data shows that completions are currently falling short. At the same time, many over-65s occupy homes that no longer match their needs. Helping this group move to smaller, more suitable properties could free up a significant number of family-sized homes.
One frequently cited obstacle is Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). While this is a well-known deterrent, the report notes that fiscal pressures make the prospect of tax reform unlikely. Instead, it highlights process improvements, especially those enabled by technology, as a faster, more feasible path forward.
Digital Property Packs are one such option. The research reveals strong support for these among older homeowners. Among those aged 65 to 74, 77% said they think Digital Property Packs are a good idea, and 70% said they would be happy to use one. In the 75+ group, 70% also supported the idea, and 66% said they would use the tool.
These packs contain key property details in a secure, accessible format that buyers and sellers can review at the outset. By sharing verified information early, they help reduce delays, lower the chance of a sale falling through, and improve trust across the process.
“There is an assumption that older people are resistant to change or digital solutions but our research clearly shows that isn’t the case. Digitisation isn’t just for the younger market; many established homeowners are actively seeking it,” Harris said.
“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.”
Phil Spencer, property expert and founder of Move iQ, echoed the call to support later-life movers: “I’ve seen time and again that many older homeowners would happily move if the process wasn’t so daunting. 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.”
