Renting, Owning, or Stuck in Between: Housing Strategies for Women Facing Affordability Stress

Prosper Admin
Oct 13
3 min read

⚠️ Any advice provided through our communications and platforms is general financial advice only and has not considered your individual objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consequently, before you decide to act on any of the information provided, it’s important for you to evaluate its appropriateness for your personal circumstances.

Housing is more than bricks and mortar — it’s about safety, stability, and dignity. Yet for many women, especially those in midlife, the path to secure housing is riddled with financial stress, rising costs, and systemic barriers. Whether you’re renting, owning, or somewhere in between, this guide offers practical strategies to help you navigate housing decisions with confidence.

Why Housing Stress Hits Women Harder

Women are disproportionately affected by housing affordability pressures. Lower lifetime earnings, interrupted careers due to caregiving, and the persistent superannuation gender gap all contribute to reduced borrowing power and long-term financial vulnerability. Add to that the impact of divorce or separation later in life, and it’s no surprise that older single women are one of the fastest-growing groups experiencing housing insecurity in Australia. But with the right tools and advice, we can change that narrative.

Renting: Flexibility with Financial Trade-Offs

Renting can offer freedom and flexibility, especially for women who value mobility or are navigating life transitions. It requires less upfront capital and removes the burden of property maintenance. However, renting also comes with trade-offs — limited control over your living environment, exposure to rent increases, and the absence of equity-building opportunities.

If you’re renting, consider negotiating longer leases to lock in rent and reduce disruption. Budgeting tools can help you stay on top of rising costs, and exploring co-living arrangements may ease financial pressure while offering community. For some, “rentvesting” — renting where you want to live while investing in property elsewhere — can be a smart way to build wealth without sacrificing lifestyle.

Owning: Security with Commitment

Home ownership offers stability, autonomy, and the potential to build long-term wealth. It’s a powerful financial asset, especially for women approaching retirement. But it also requires significant financial commitment, from upfront costs to ongoing maintenance and insurance. The risk of mortgage stress is real, particularly if your income fluctuates or you’re navigating solo ownership.

To make ownership more accessible, investigate government schemes like the First Home Guarantee or shared equity programs. Buying with a trusted friend or family member may also be an option worth exploring. If you’re open to relocating, regional areas often offer better value and lifestyle benefits. And don’t forget your super — downsizer contributions after age 55 can help you transition into home ownership or free up equity later in life.

Stuck in Between: Navigating the Grey Zone

Many women find themselves in transitional housing situations — living with family post-divorce, couch-surfing between jobs, or unable to qualify for a mortgage despite stable income. These in-between phases can feel disempowering, but they’re also an opportunity to regroup and plan.

Start by seeking financial advice to map a clear path forward. Building your credit history and savings buffer will strengthen your future borrowing power. Community housing programs and transitional support services may offer short-term relief while you work toward stability. And even if home ownership isn’t immediately possible, prioritising super contributions and long-term investments can protect your financial wellbeing.

How Prosper Financial Planning Supports You

Housing stress can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone — and you’re not without options. Whether you’re renting, owning, or navigating the in-between, the key is to align your housing choices with your values, goals, and financial strategy. With the right support and planning, you can turn uncertainty into opportunity.

At Prosper Financial Planning, we believe every woman deserves a safe, secure place to call home — and a plan to get there. Let’s rewrite the story of housing for women, together.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Midlife is your time. If you’re ready to turn reflection into action, book a complimentary consultation with Prosper Financial Planning. Let’s build a future that honours your strength, your story, and your financial goals.