A new survey has revealed a surprising shift in family dynamics: children are increasingly the key decision-makers when it comes to moving house. According to research commissioned by property portal Zoopla, a staggering 74% of families say the final say lies with their children.
This insight came from a nationwide survey conducted by Opinium, involving 2,000 UK adults who have moved home at least once with someone else in their household.
It turns out that a successful house move now involves far more than just the adults’ checklist.
“For a significant portion of the market, the family home is truly a family decision. Understanding these nuanced dynamics is invaluable, and it underscores the importance of open communication for a smoother, happier house hunt,” said Daniel Copley, consumer expert at Zoopla.
While children might have the final word on whether a house feels right, it’s men who are more likely to manage the practical aspects of the process:
- Setting the budget: 33% of men take the lead vs. 19% of women
- Choosing a mortgage: 34% of men vs. 17% of women
- Arranging conveyancing: 38% of men vs. 24% of women
- Negotiating price: 36% of men vs. 20% of women
It appears dads often handle the paperwork and negotiations, but when it comes to choosing the home, the little ones might still get the deciding vote.
When it comes to rejecting a property, women are more likely to speak up — 57% compared to 43% of men. And on the topic of making compromises, more men feel they’re the ones making the concessions, with 31% of men claiming they give way more often, compared to 25% of women.
For families, it’s not just about bricks and mortar, it’s about building a future.
“Families with young children, who would spend their childhood and teenage years growing up at the property, value the opinion of their offspring,” noted Nigel Bishop, founder of buying agency Recoco Property Search.
Whether it’s about proximity to a preferred school, having space for a trampoline, or just that special feeling when a child walks into a room, their influence is undeniable.
And estate agents are noticing the trend too.
“A home move can have a huge impact on an entire family, such as school, college and university relocations, as well as longer commutes to a place of work – a move needs to be right for everyone.
Therefore, it is positive to see that the children of many families are playing a key role in the final decision-making process for their next family home, which is more likely to lead to a happier and more successful future for everyone involved.
Personally, in my professional opinion, I have noted that women tend to lead the general home buying and selling process,” explained Mary-Lou Press, estate agent and president of NAEA Propertymark.
The traditional image of adults calling the shots during a home move is fading fast. The modern family is a collaborative unit, and in many cases, it’s the smallest voices making the biggest calls.
In an age where work-from-home flexibility, school catchment priorities, and quality of life take centre stage, it seems only fair that every family member, regardless of age, gets their say. And clearly, UK families agree.
