Homeownership Trends: Single Women Leading the Real Estate Market

Young or Old, Rich or Poor, Single or Married – People in All Stages of Life Are Looking to Invest in a Home Instead of Throwing Away Money on Rent

With women outnumbering men in higher education and addressing the gender gap in salaries, single women are becoming a powerful force in the real estate market. Despite challenges like low inventory, rising interest rates, and increasing home prices, single female homebuyers make up 18% of all buyers, according to a 2025 report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR). For two consecutive years, they ranked as the second most common household buyer type behind married couples (63%), while single men accounted for just 9%.

Why Single Women Are Buying

Homeownership is a top priority for women, surpassing marriage and parenthood. A 2025 Bank of America Homebuyer Insights report found that 73% of women prioritize owning a home, compared to 41% prioritizing marriage and 31% prioritizing having children. In contrast, only 65% of men ranked homeownership as their top goal.

Single women homebuyers are a diverse group, including individuals of all ages, races, and income levels, as well as single mothers, widows, and divorcees. Research from the Joint Center for Housing Studies reveals that nearly half live alone, 30% are single mothers, and two-thirds were previously married. Triggers for buying include rising home prices, interest rates, rent increases, and higher income, according to a 2025 BDX study.

Key Considerations for Single Female Homebuyers

1. Save (Extra) and Get Your Credit in Order

• Single buyers rely solely on their income for down payments, mortgage approvals, and monthly payments.
• Save at least 5-20% for a down payment (e.g., $10,000–$40,000 on a $200,000 home).
• Improve credit scores and resolve adverse accounts, as lenders evaluate solo applicants rigorously.
• Consider a guarantor or co-signer if needed.

2. Determine What You Qualify For—and What You’re Willing to Spend

• Single women tend to buy lower-priced homes (median $189,000 vs. $215,000 for single men).
• Factor in hidden costs like insurance, taxes, and maintenance.
• Test your budget by simulating mortgage payments for six months.

3. Prioritize Dream Home Features

• Focus on safety, convenience, and location: single women prefer central cities, condos, and two-bedroom homes.
• Look for well-lit entrances, drive-in garages, and alarm systems.

4. Factor in the Long Haul

• Plan for potential life changes (e.g., job relocation, marriage) by choosing homes with rental or resale potential.
• Avoid over-customizing if it’s not a “forever home.”

5. Beef Up Your Emergency Fund

• Save six months’ worth of mortgage and living expenses for unexpected costs like job loss or repairs.

6. Build Resiliency and Perseverance

• Anticipate challenges like bidding wars or inspection issues. Stay focused on the long-term benefits of independence and empowerment.

7. Assemble the Right Team

• Work with trusted lenders, real estate agents, and home inspectors. Research neighborhoods and attend first-time buyer courses.

Final Thoughts

Single women are reshaping the real estate market through financial preparedness and strategic choices. By prioritizing safety, location, and long-term flexibility, they are securing homes that align with their lifestyles and goals.

Ready to begin looking? Explore current listings at Pre-ConstructionHomes.com.