There are fewer first-time homebuyers in the market lately, and those who are out there tend to be older, according to recent data.
NAR’s 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers says the percentage of first-time buyers hit a record low of 21%, while the median age of first-time buyers hit a record high of 40, based on transactions from July 2024 to June 2025.
You have a tremendous opportunity when working with first-time buyers. This is their first rodeo, and your guidance and expertise can make a huge difference in their experience in the real estate market. Consider these strategies when helping them.
Connect Them to Resources
According to the report, many first-time buyers are turning to their own savings or financial assets, rather than help from family and friends, for their downpayment.
But they still may benefit from financial assistance and likely do not know about the programs they may qualify for. Share these links with your clients.
The TDHCA Homebuyer Program from Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
First Time Home Buyer Grants from the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation
Resources from the Texas Real Estate Commission
Get Up to Speed with REALTOR® Materials
The Texas Affordable Housing Specialist certification gives you specialized training to help you serve first-time homebuyers. Visit texasrealestate.com/findacourse to see upcoming sessions.
Check out these tips from Texas REALTORS®, such as 5 Things First-Time Homebuyers Don’t Know They Should Do and What to Avoid as a First-Time Homebuyer. The association’s Texas Homebuying Experience Report offers additional insights into how homebuyers are feeling right now.
Introduce Them to the Real Estate Transaction
Your first-time buyers may be relying on older, outdated, or incorrect information about the housing market learned from family, friends, and the internet.
Take time to walk them through each step of the process and explain what’s going to happen—just as you would with any other client. Be ready to answer plenty of questions. Keep in touch to let them know where they are in the transaction and what’s coming next. Your first-time buyer clients will remember feeling supported, heard, and taken care of long after you hand them the keys.