First-Time U.S. Homebuyer Age Hits Record 40 as Policy Remedies Take Center Stage

Overview

• The National Association of Realtors says the median age of first-time buyers has reached 40, with limited inventory lengthening saving and search times.
• Home costs remain elevated, with the national median sales price at $410,800 in Q2 2025 and U.S. home values more than 45% higher than in 2020, according to Fed and Zillow data.
• President Donald Trump has endorsed exploring a 50-year mortgage; a Realtor.com comparison shows a typical $400,000 loan could trim monthly payments by about $250 but more than double lifetime interest versus a 30-year term.
• Fannie Mae has reportedly removed its 620 minimum credit-score requirement, a change noted by The Daily Signal that would broaden access but raises underwriting questions.
• Real-estate agents report younger buyers are carrying heavier debt loads and struggling to amass down payments, reinforcing the affordability squeeze on entry-level purchasers.