Hashtag
Men's Weekly

Boomers Don’t Renovate, and It’s Becoming a Problem


There’s nothing sadder than going to see a property left behind by an older person. Most of the time, these properties are filled with last-century chic. They’re completely unrenovated and filled with the touches that spoke to the owner’s tastes and life story.

While character is a wonderful thing when it comes to property, most boomers just don’t renovate, even when they should. More often than not, those charming touches of personality come with structural issues, some of which have been left to deteriorate for 40 years or more. 

Imagine a property where termites have been allowed to run rampant or concrete cancer has been left untreated. Picture unaddressed roof damage, leading to extensive damage, and cracked brickwork that poses a real safety risk. 

I’ve been inspecting properties for thirty years. Lately, we’ve seen many more of these dilapidated yet recently occupied homes. They’re unsuitable for rentals and unaffordable for buyers. So, what’s next?

The Problem in a Housing Shortage

 Here in Perth, property has never been in such hot demand! In fact, research shows that only one home is built for every eight new people in Perth, leaving many with no place to go. Right now, there simply aren’t enough houses for sale or rent. 

As the housing shortage continues to drive Perth property prices up, the market is in desperate need of attractive, renovated properties that make buyers want to snap them up before they’re gone. 

However, boomers are still the largest cohort of homeowners in 72 of Perth’s 163 metropolitan suburbs. If boomers aren’t renovating, the real estate market is forced to deal with an influx of outdated homes.

Even when houses do become available, there are plenty of other barriers to consider. 

“We've been working in the property renovation industry for 90+ years and between the tradie shortage, the supply chain disruptions, the unpredictable weather and the number of neglected properties coming to market, we've never had so many difficulties running our business,” said Perth painter Stephen Cochrane.

Owners Staying for Longer

Increasingly, experts are concerned that older generations are staying at home for longer, and in doing so, they’re allowing their properties to fall victim to neglect. 

Over time, small oversights begin to add up and can create expensive problems for future owners. When older owners are ready to move out, their homes may not be fit to live in without major repair work. 

For children who inherit property from their parents, this renovation demand can be a heavy burden, even leading to financial stress. For busy buyers, an unrenovated home might not be worth the high price tag in a challenging market, considering the additional time and funds needed to turn a house into a home. 

Earning a Reputation

How do you want people to view you, your home, and your generation? Well, your renovation choices could be the deciding factor. 

“Our generation is either the spoiled capitalists with dozens of luxury properties that we bought for a bite and a button, or we're the hoarders who won't mow a lawn,” said Louise Storey from senior lifestyle blog Older and Wiser. “The younger generations really do paint us in the most unfavourable light.”

By simply keeping up with home repairs and maintenance, boomers can reframe the narrative, take pride in their properties, and support the financial freedom of whoever moves in next. 

Is it time to renovate? Yes! Don’t let your home waste away. Show it the TLC it deserves!

Property News Wanted


Do you have property or real estate related news to share? Prepare at least 425 words and send a pic with it to office@newscompany.com.au

Property

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Property Conveyancing Lawyer

Hashtag.net.au - avatar Hashtag.net.au

Choosing the right property conveyancing lawyer is a crucial step when buying or selling property in Australia. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor, a reliable property ...

Why More Buyers Are Turning to Buyers Agents in Adelaide

Hashtag.net.au - avatar Hashtag.net.au

With strong demand, increasing property values, and growing interest from interstate investors, navigating the local market has become more complex. To stay competitive and make smart purchasing dec...

Why Real Estate Rubbish Removal is Essential for Property Success

Hashtag.net.au - avatar Hashtag.net.au

When it comes to buying, selling, or renting out a property, presentation matters more than most people realise. A property might have the perfect location and structure, but if it’s cluttered with ...

How to Choose the Right Size Concrete Mixer for Your Construction Needs

Hashtag.net.au - avatar Hashtag.net.au

(Source) No matter what type of construction you are undertaking, whether it's a garden patio, driveway repair, or a full-scale construction site, the right tools will make the greatest difference...

NSW First Home Buyers Grant: Your Escape Route from the Rental Hamster Wheel

Hashtag.net.au - avatar Hashtag.net.au

Remember when you thought adulting meant having your own place? Then reality hit like a brick wall made of rental receipts and property prices that seem to multiply while you sleep.  If you're star...

Resilient and Adaptive Landscapes: Rethinking Urban Design for A Changing Climate

Hashtag.net.au - avatar Hashtag.net.au

Increasing climate instability requires urban planners and landscape architects to focus their designs on survival instead of solely on beauty or utility. Floods, heatwaves, and long-term droughts h...

Health & Wellness

5 Signs Your Loved One Might Benefit from In-Home Therapy Support

Hashtag.net.au - avatar Hashtag.net.au

Living with a disability or health condition can present daily challenges, especially when accessing regular therapy support outside the home. That’s why many individuals and their families are turn...

Connecting You to Community: The Role of Your NDIS Disability Services Provider in Inclusion

Hashtag.net.au - avatar Hashtag.net.au

(Source)When discussing disability services, it is tempting to focus on the practical aspects, such as daily routines, mobility aids, and support workers. However, after all that, there is another thi...

Balancing Efficiency with Compliance in Healthcare Environments

Hashtag.net.au - avatar Hashtag.net.au

In today’s complex healthcare landscape, striking the right balance between operational efficiency and regulatory compliance is more than a best practice—it’s a necessity. Healthcare organisations m...