There are a whole lot of other factors that increase friction more than owning your domicile, and those factors tend to be stronger with people who are motivated to buy:

- Deep networks of friends - Strong community ties - Strong local family ties - Children with their attendant social networks - General aversion to moving frequently

Also, the idea that "most" homeowners never leave is antiquated. Nearly everyone I know who has bought a property has bought more than one before 40.