Elizabeth Guevara / Investopedia The typical first-time homebuyer is now 40 years old, as it becomes harder for younger people to buy a house. Key Takeaways The typical first-time homebuyer is now 40 years old, the highest on record and up from the late 20s in the 1980s. High mortgage payments, rent, and student loans have made it harder for younger people to afford what was once a milestone of adulthood. Housing is so unaffordable and younger adults are so financially stressed, most are now enterin ...