Buying a home has always been one of life’s biggest decisions. But the way people approach it has changed dramatically from one generation to the next. What our parents once valued often looks very different from what today’s young buyers and families are searching for. Lifestyle, financial possibilities, and shifting priorities all play a role. Today’s housing market reflects this clearly: beyond square footage, buyers are just as focused on functionality, location, and the overall quality of life a home can offer.

Then: Stability and Permanence

For our parents’ generation, buying property was above all a lifelong investment. The goal was usually to find a “forever home,” a place where children and even grandchildren would always return. Location mattered, but mainly in relation to work and essential services such as schools, hospitals and shops. Size was often more important than finishing touches, since more space meant comfort and long-term security. The community was also crucial: good neighbors meant safety and belonging. Homes were thought of as something to be passed down, and renovations were rare, typically focused on function rather than aesthetics.

Now: Flexibility, Functionality, and Style

Today’s young buyers see things differently. Their lives are faster-paced, more mobile, and shaped by personal goals rather than the idea of staying in one place forever. Location still counts, but now it’s about connectivity, proximity to the city center, good transport links, and access to cultural and social life. A well-designed smaller apartment can be more attractive than a larger one, especially if it offers smart layouts, open-plan living, or multi-purpose spaces. Style and energy efficiency carry a lot of weight too: smart home features, good insulation, energy- saving windows, and quality materials often rank higher than just having more square meters. Flexibility is key, buyers want a home they can easily adapt or rent out if life circumstances change.

Families: Balancing Tradition and Modern Demands

For families, buying a home is still very much about security and stability, but updated for modern life. Location is judged not only by access to schools, parks, and daycare, but also by commuting options and urban amenities. Space remains a priority, with three- and four-bedroom apartments in high demand. Families also look for practical features like extra bathrooms, terraces, and layouts that can grow with their children. Safety and community remain important, but often in modern forms such as gated entrances, video surveillance, or shared courtyards where kids can play.

The Generational Divide

If we compare generations in simple terms: older buyers prioritized large, stable, long-lasting homes, while younger buyers are drawn to modern, flexible, and urban living spaces. Families aim for a middle ground, seeking stability and enough room, but with the conveniences and quality-of-life features of today. The differences stem from broader lifestyle shifts: jobs and cities change more frequently, mortgage terms and living standards look different, and social life is increasingly shaped by technology and mobility.

The way people approach home buying today looks nothing like it did twenty or thirty years ago. Young buyers value practicality, style, and mobility, while families want stability and space adapted to modern living standards. Compared to our parents’ generation, what has changed is not just the idea of a home, but the expectations attached to it. Once a symbol of permanence, a home today is seen as a flexible foundation, something that adapts to the life you want to live.