I am in basically the same situation: Over 30, single, own a home, bootstrapping a business. I have steady and flexible part time consulting work I can use to pay the bills if I need to, but rarely do. I have 2 room-mates I share my house with that pay 100% of the mortgage and a large chunk of utilities. I have practically 0 debt (other than the house). I have worked at several startups already, and know better than many first-timers what is involved. If anything I believe I am better off starting a company than a young 22 year old.
One important difference though: Like another commenter said, I am not as eager to accept any investor terms thrown my way, nor am I gauging my success on investor interest. I am in this to make a profitable, successful business venture, and will only accept investment on good terms when it will directly aid in the growth of my company. Perhaps that is why VCs might avoid older entrepreneurs, we are more cautious of investment deals, and don't judge success by those alone.
One important difference though: Like another commenter said, I am not as eager to accept any investor terms thrown my way, nor am I gauging my success on investor interest. I am in this to make a profitable, successful business venture, and will only accept investment on good terms when it will directly aid in the growth of my company. Perhaps that is why VCs might avoid older entrepreneurs, we are more cautious of investment deals, and don't judge success by those alone.