Homeownership remains the long-term aspiration for the majority and continues to hold a powerful place in the Irish psyche, but pragmatism is changing how people think about achieving housing security.

For many younger adults, the traditional path to buying is no longer viewed as straightforward or guaranteed, and that is influencing what they see as realistic, acceptable or achievable. There is an increased openness to long-term renting, social housing and more flexible housing options which suggests that people are broadening their definition of housing security in response to the market around them.

People are reassessing expectations and adopting. Those in the market to buy are starting to save earlier, leaning more on family support and engaging more closely with mortgage and housing supports. Homeowners are thinking more about the long-term comfort and sustainability of their homes.

There are still gaps in levels of awareness and understanding of available supports to help people buy a home or improve the home they live in. Ensuring supports are easier to understand, access and act on will become more and more important.