Homebuyers

Homebuyers Aren’t Giving Up: Most Plan to Purchase in 2026

Even after a year shaped by affordability challenges in the housing market, most would-be homebuyers aren’t giving up. Instead, they are planning to purchase a home in 2026.

About 88% of prospective buyers say they are very or somewhat likely to purchase a home in 2026, according to a survey from REMAX. About 71% say current market conditions have delayed their plans.

About 1,000 people planning to purchase a home within the next 18 months responded to the survey, which was conducted in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Yet, perhaps it’s more than the bottom line that’s leading to longer home searches.

“Today’s buyers aren’t just looking for a house, they’re looking for a sense of community,” said Chris Lim, chief growth officer at REMAX, in a statement. “It’s clear that lifestyle and connection are just as important as the property itself.”

Here’s what homebuyers are prioritizing for the new year.

Homebuyer Concern No. 1: Affordability

Affordability remains the biggest factor for most homebuyers.

More than three-quarters of REMAX survey respondents said lower home prices would prompt them to buy within the next six months. About 58% said lower mortgage rates would accelerate their plans.

Many potential buyers are looking for meaningful drops in interest rates. Fewer than 10% of respondents said mortgage rates between 5% and 6% would speed up their homebuying timeline.

Homebuyer Concern No. 2: Neighborhoods

Home prices may determine what type of buyers can afford, but neighborhood quality is increasingly shaping where they choose to look.

Nearly 80% of would-be buyers cited safety as a top priority for where they want to live, followed closely by access to shopping, restaurants, schools, and work.

Buyers have more time to do this kind of research now and in the new year now that the pandemic frenzy is firmly in the rearview mirror.

“One substantial benefit to future homebuyers today is that they are more deliberate, less regretful in their decisions,” said Ben Mizes, president and co-founder at Clever Offers based in St. Louis, Mo.

More than half of buyers also said future neighborhood development, such as new housing, retail, or transit improvements, is very important to their decision. That points to a growing focus on long-term livability and resale potential.

Homebuyer Concern No. 3: Local amenities

Buyers are willing to pay more for local services that improve their everyday lives.

A whooping 60% said they would pay a premium for shared amenities like pools or gyms. Among those buyers, three in four were willing to pay at least 5% more of the home’s price.

That willingness is strongest among younger buyers. Gen Z and Millennials were far more likely than Gen X or Baby Boomers to pay for shared amenities. These generations are prioritizing convenience as well as connection.

Beyond those little lifestyle extras, buyers are increasingly valuing social factors. Seven in 10 respondents said they would pay more for neighborhoods known for strong community engagement and friendly neighbors.

Nearly 40% of respondents listed a sense of community or neighborhood vibe as a top priority. That’s because many buyers are thinking beyond simply the four walls of a home.

For homebuyers planning a move in 2026, understand what would move the needle for you in your home search. Whether that is a lower home price, commute times, or the neighborhood, drilling down on what you are looking for will help focus your search.