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Couples who are married or in a monogamous relationship are no longer the only group buying homes. Single women, particularly those in the “SINK” (single income, no kids) demographic, are increasingly qualifying for mortgages and purchasing homes. Needless to say, this has gotten the attention of the residential real estate industry.
According to the National Association of Realtors, single women accounted for 19% of all homebuyers in 2023. This upward trend is influenced by factors such as financial independence and a desire for stability through investment in real estate.
This trend is being driven by several factors. More and more women are choosing to delay marriage and childbearing to focus on their careers. These single-income women prioritize professional success and without the financial responsibility of rearing children, they have more disposable income to invest in a home.
What This Means for You: SINK women homeowners signify a growing trend toward economic empowerment, gender equality, and the formation of diverse, inclusive communities. It also suggests aspects of homeownership that are important for both buyers and sellers to consider.
When used in a new home, Acme Brick are guaranteed for 100 years against structural failure. This limited guarantee is fully transferable from homeowner to homeowner. For more than 130 years, Acme has been manufacturing brick for homes that last for generations.
A Trend Toward Female Homeownership
The U.S. Census Bureau reports that single women own 20.3 million homes in the U.S., while single men own 14.9 million. This trend shows no signs of slowing down. What do SINK women homebuyers prioritize when shopping for a new home?
Low maintenance homes rank at the top of the list for many women homebuyers, aligning with their lifestyle and priorities. Women who are focused on their careers and personal growth want a home that doesn't require extensive upkeep. A low maintenance home allows them to dedicate more time and energy to their professional and personal interests.
Additionally, low-maintenance homes often come with modern, durable materials and features that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical, making them an ideal choice for independent women who want a hassle-free living environment.
Brick by Brick
What makes for a low maintenance home? The simple answer is brick. Here’s why:
Durability
Brick homes are built to last, offering the long-term stability and reliability that both couples and singles look for in a property. This durability leads to fewer repairs and lower maintenance costs over time.
Pest Resistant
Brick is resistant to pests such as termites and ants, which can cause significant damage to other types of building materials.
Fire Resistance
Homes constructed with brick have non-combustible exteriors that offers superior fire resistance compared to wood and other materials. This protects the safety and longevity of the home.
- Fewer Repairs
Over time, brick homes generally require fewer repairs. Brick can last for the life of the house.
Energy Efficiency
The density of brick enhances insulation, helping to maintain indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs. Lower utility bills make brick homes a financially smart choice. Energy efficiency is another top must-have for SINK women.
The Exclamation Point: That Elegant Look!
SINK women seek a combination of practicality, aesthetic beauty, and long-term value in their homeownership choices. Brick offers a timeless, elegant look that works with a variety of architectural styles. Its classic appearance can add curb appeal and overall value to a home.
Fast Forward
Many in this group of single women with no kids buy a home with a forward-thinking mindset. They consider not only their current needs but also what the future might hold. Even if they’re currently single or without children, many women consider the possibility of starting a family someday. This influences their choice of a home with enough space and in family-friendly neighborhoods.
As life circumstances change, so might their needs. Having a home that can adapt to different stages of life - whether it's accommodating hobbies, taking care of aging parents, working from home or aging in place - makes sense.
Women often take on the role of caregivers for parents, which makes multigenerational living an appealing option. Newer multigenerational homes often include flexible living spaces, such as separate entrances or in-law suites, allowing for privacy while maintaining proximity to other family members.
A Home Office: The Ultimate Multifunctional Space
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While some industries are encouraging a return to the office for workers, several surveys have suggested that in the United States, approximately 22% of the workforce is projected to be working remotely by 2025. This trend is largely driven by the benefits of flexibility and work-life balance that remote work provides. Furthermore, a significant 98% of employees express a preference for remote work at least some of the time, highlighting its strong appeal among workers.
SINK women view the home office as a versatile space. This room serves multiple purposes - a workspace, guest room, or even a quiet retreat for relaxation and wellness. This adaptability aligns perfectly with their dynamic lifestyles and the need for a dedicated area to balance work and personal life.
Utilizing accent walls can further designate home office design zones, keeping them both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Acme thinBRIK is ideal for accent walls! Whether one’s style leans modern and industrial or cozy and traditional, its straightforward installation allows for quick and efficient office transformations.
Natural Surroundings
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According to the National Association of Realtors SINK customers are typically women in their mid-30s to early 60s, and this age group enjoys the company of friends and family. This makes an outdoor entertainment area important.
Outdoor living spaces are important to the SINK group, many of whom are Millennials and Gen Z. Recent studies show that these demographics prioritize developing their outdoor areas to make them more livable and suitable for entertaining. For example, 41% of Gen Xers and 38% of Millennials said they are focused on expanding their exterior living spaces. This trend reflects their desire to create functional, enjoyable, and personalized outdoor environments that align with their lifestyle and values.
Contemporary outdoor fireplaces are visually appealing and add a stylish element to backyards and patios. This makes them a popular choice for these single homeowners who want to transform their backyard into a sanctuary of practicality, community, and beauty. Outdoor fireplaces allow them to enjoy their outdoor spaces even in cooler weather, extending the use of patios, decks, and gardens throughout the year.
The Destination Is the Journey
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The homebuying journey for SINK women involves a variety of important considerations, from practical aspects such convenient location and safety, to personal preferences such as friendly neighbors, pet-friendly features, and sustainable living.
In addition, building equity with each mortgage payment can be a valuable financial resource for future independence. This home purchase can be a significant milestone for many single women.
These factors should not be lost on architects, home builders, interior designers and real estate professionals. SINK women purchase homes that not only meet their needs but also reflect their lifestyle, and align with their daily activities, values, and preferences.
For single women or couples who currently own a home and need some ideas on improving that residence, Acme is more than just brick. Click here for products that proudly share the commitment to value of Acme Brick.