From 'She-Elites' to Gen X: Coldwell Banker Global Luxury details the emerging forces fueling optimism in the 2025 luxury real estate sector

Insights from Luxury Property Specialists highlight rising market confidence and key trends shaping the global luxury real estate landscape in the year ahead

MADISON, N.J., Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, an Anywhere^® (NYSE:HOUS) brand, and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury^® program today unveiled "The Trend Report," an in-depth look of the 2025 luxury real estate market that showcases three transformative trends: the rise of multigenerational living; the emergence of Gen X and "She-Elites" as market leaders; and drivers for up-and-coming luxury hotspots.

With more luxury buyers poised to re-enter the market, the report also reveals a positive outlook driven by renewed confidence, a greater selection of desirable properties and more purchasing power.

According to a recent survey of Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Property Specialists, 85.5% of them noted they would rate the buyer market conditions in 2025 either "fair" or "good." Nearly half of Global Luxury Property Specialists (47.9%) surveyed reported an increase in first-time luxury homebuyers entering their respective markets, indicating continued enthusiasm for luxury real estate as affluent consumers pursue their dream home.

The Rise of Multigenerational Living

Luxury buyers are increasingly seeking homes designed to accommodate multigenerational living and evolving family needs. Forty-five percent of Luxury Property Specialists surveyed noted that flexible layouts were a top design feature among their clients.

With attributes such as first-floor in-law suites, lofts or alcoves, open floor plans and extended family spaces, these designs allow for seamless life transitions such as raising children, caring for elderly parents and creating functional work-from-home spaces. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) – while not always attached to the main residence – are also increasingly sought-after among buyers who want the flexibility to host guests while maintaining privacy. This versatility ensures that luxury homes remain not only beautiful, but also sanctuaries that have emotional resonance, authentic spirit and serve as a practical investment over the long term.

Gen X: The Luxury Latchkey Generation

Gen X luxury homeownership in 2024 jumped by 10% in the span of five years — more than any other age group, according to data from Wealth-X, a data company that provides comprehensive analysis of individuals with a net worth of $5 million plus. While Baby Boomers still hold over 50% of market share of luxury homeownership, Gen X is rapidly gaining ground. Luxury Property Specialists concur, noting that Gen X is the most prevalent age group among their luxury buyers. Luxury homes are defined as the top 10% in any given market.

Driven by lifestyle choices, Gen Xers prioritize location and turn-key properties. Rather than seeking only luxury "things," these buyers are drawn to properties offering access to experiences, such as walkability to cultural hubs and scenic views. Many Gen Xers are also investing in second homes, underscoring their focus on diversifying investments while enhancing their lifestyles.

The Growing Power of "She-Elites"

Women with a net worth of $5 million or more now own 15.2% of luxury real estate in the U.S. and 13.1% worldwide, per data from Wealth-X. "She-elites" or married women are a growing force in both buying and selling properties in luxury real estate. While men may still initiate some decisions, 95% of affluent buyers report that women either share the decision-making or take the lead.

New Drivers for the Wealthy

A new list of needs is driving high-net-worth individuals to seek primary and secondary residences beyond traditional destinations like New York and London, in favor of cities like Dubai and Singapore, or locales rich in cultural richness and tranquility such as Melbourne and Lisbon. These drivers – based on insight from Luxury Property Specialists and Barton Consulting – include lower taxes, climate, economic opportunities and lifestyle preferences. Buyers are drawn to locations where they can make the best use of their wealth in more dynamic ways. Additionally, U.S. cities like Austin and Houston are becoming more popular for offering luxury living at a more attractive value.

The Trend Report was developed in collaboration with the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, Wealth-X and Barton Consulting. To explore the Trend Report's full findings, visit https://www.coldwellbankerluxury.com/.

QUOTES: 

"The luxury real estate market has proven its resilience, even amidst broader market fluctuations, and we are confident that 2025 will see continued consumer optimism. For high-net-worth individuals, real estate remains a constant necessity and their desire for exceptional properties with unique designs and premium amenities is stronger than ever. With increased optimism and a shift in priorities, we anticipate a more dynamic year ahead. Our Global Luxury Property Specialists are ready to help clients navigate this evolving landscape with expertise and insight."

• Michael Altneu, vice president, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury

"We are seeing an extraordinary evolution in home design that reflects the changing dynamic of luxury real estate. Women, especially, are powerful decision-makers that are making critical choices about where and how they live. The clients I work with are seeking more than just square footage—they want intelligent, adaptable spaces that can seamlessly accommodate multiple generations. A luxury home is now about creating a sanctuary that allows the flexibility needed to support a family's lifestyle and future needs."  

• Jade Mills, president, Jade Mills Estates and International Ambassador of
  
  Coldwell Banker Global Luxury^® program

Methodology

The Coldwell Banker Global Luxury® program collaborated with their Luxury Property Specialists (through the means of a survey), Wealth-X, an Altrata Company, the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing and Barton Consulting LLC to provide insights into wealth, real estate, property investment, luxury spending preferences and emerging trends. For the Trend Report 2025, the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing analyzed the data for the top 10% of 120 U.S. markets. Data contained is from November 1, 2022 to October 30, 2024 and has been computed by the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing's data research partner and shared with Coldwell Banker Global Luxury® and based on information attained both privately and publicly. For more information on how data was collected and defined, please refer to the full methodology on page 4 of the Trend Report.

About Coldwell Banker Global Luxury^® 

The Coldwell Banker Global Luxury® program legacy traces its roots to 1933 and has been a world leader in luxury real estate since. Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Property Specialists are an exclusive group within the Coldwell Banker® system, making up under ten percent of independent sales associates affiliated with the brand worldwide. Coldwell Banker affiliated agents conducted 39,339 transaction sides of homes priced at $1 million or more in 2023. This equates to $200 million in daily luxury sales with an average sales price of $1.9 million in this category.* Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury logo are registered marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. 

 

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SOURCE Coldwell Banker Global Luxury