Housing Market Optimism: Nearly 90% of Buyers Plan to Buy in 2026

I’ve been following the housing market closely for years, and I can tell you this: 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for homebuyers. Even after a few years of uncertainty, the desire to own a home isn’t fading—it’s stronger than ever.

According to recent surveys, nearly 9 out of 10 prospective buyers are planning to purchase a home next year, despite some having delayed their plans over the past year.

You might be wondering why so many people are ready to jump in now. It’s not just about market numbers or interest rates—it’s about timing, opportunity, and the real-life need for a space you can truly call your own.

In this article, I want to walk you through the trends, priorities, and factors that will shape the 2026 home-buying landscape, and help you figure out how to position yourself wisely in this market.

By the end, you’ll have a clear sense of what buyers like you are looking for, what challenges to expect, and how to make informed decisions without getting caught in hype or guesswork.

2026 Home Buyer Sentiment — What Drives the Decision

When I look at the numbers, it’s clear that 2026 is a year many buyers are ready to act. According to a Re/Max survey reported on Realtor, 71% of prospective buyers experienced delays due to current market conditions. Yet, 88% still plan to buy a home next year. That tells me one thing: the desire for homeownership hasn’t waned—it’s simply waiting for the right moment.

What I find even more interesting is what could push buyers off the sidelines. About 78% say that more affordable home prices would prompt them to buy within the next six months, and 58% say lower mortgage rates would accelerate their plans.

For you, that means timing your move around price trends and rates can make a real difference. Don’t just wait for the “perfect” market—understanding these triggers can help you make smarter decisions.

Many buyers are seizing the opportunity when mortgage rates dip, similar to trends we’ve seen in recent US home sales.

Practical takeaway: Keep an eye on price trends and mortgage fluctuations. If affordability improves slightly, it could be the nudge you need to finally take action.

Affordability & Mortgage Outlook — What to Expect in 2026

I’ve noticed that mortgage rates and monthly payments are top of mind for buyers, and rightfully so. The 2026 Realtor Housing Forecast predicts mortgage rates averaging around 6.3%, while home prices rise modestly by about 2.2%. That combination actually reduces typical monthly payments by roughly 1.3% year over year—the first decline since 2020.

For you, this isn’t just numbers on a page. It means you might be able to afford a slightly larger or better-located home than you thought.

Planning your budget around these figures—and understanding how small shifts in rates or prices impact your monthly payment—can give you a clear advantage in negotiations.

Even a small change in interest rates can significantly impact what you can afford, so it’s worth understanding how each percentage point affects your buying power.

Practical takeaway: Calculate your expected monthly payment including mortgage, taxes, and insurance, and compare it with your current spending. That simple step can help you avoid overextending yourself financially.

Amenities That Really Matter — Where Buyers Are Willing to Spend More

If you’ve ever toured a modern development, you know it’s not just about the home itself—it’s about the lifestyle it offers. According to the Re/Max survey, 60% of buyers are willing to pay a premium for shared community amenities like pools and gyms. Among them, 76% would spend 5% or more of the home’s price for these features.

Younger generations—Gen Z and millennials—are especially drawn to these perks. Zoom rooms, podcast areas, and communal dining spaces are becoming highly valued. If you’re buying in 2026, think beyond the walls of your home.

The neighborhood and shared facilities might matter more than you realize, especially if you’re planning to work from home or host social activities.

Practical takeaway: Identify the amenities that align with your lifestyle. It’s not just a luxury—it can add to your daily convenience, social life, and long-term satisfaction.

Community & Neighborhood Priorities — What Buyers Value Most

Here’s something I’ve learned from talking to buyers over the years: the right neighborhood can make or break your home experience. In the survey, 51% of respondents preferred suburbs, while 32% preferred cities—but regardless of location, building a sense of community was key.

About 71% were willing to pay more for a neighborhood with strong engagement and friendly neighbors.

For you, this means looking past the house itself. Check for neighborhood vibe, social events, or active local groups. These factors influence everything from your day-to-day happiness to long-term property value.

Younger buyers, especially Gen Z and millennials, prioritize community more than older generations, but almost everyone benefits from a supportive, connected environment.

Many buyers find it helpful to connect with others who are also exploring neighborhoods and amenities. You can join active discussion groups to get updates, ask questions, and see real-life experiences in different communities.

Practical takeaway: Spend time in potential neighborhoods at different times of day. Talk to neighbors, visit parks, check local online groups. Your sense of comfort and safety will be a better predictor of long-term happiness than square footage alone.

Safety, Affordability & Convenience — Non-Negotiables

I can’t stress enough how important basic considerations are. Safety is a top concern for nearly 80% of buyers—looking at crime rates, street lighting, and general neighborhood security is crucial. Affordability is next, with 69% prioritizing access to reasonably priced homes.

Proximity matters too. Fifty-eight percent value being close to work, 57% to shopping and public spaces, 54% to restaurants, and 45% to schools. When you weigh these factors together, you get a picture of what really drives satisfaction after moving in.

Practical takeaway: Make a checklist of your top 5 non-negotiables. Compare each neighborhood against this list before committing. It will save you stress later and ensure the home truly fits your life.

Generational Differences — How Age Impacts Priorities

I’ve found that age shapes what buyers value most. Gen Z and millennials care more about amenities and community engagement, while Gen X and baby boomers put higher weight on safety, affordability, and convenience.

For you, understanding generational trends helps in two ways. First, if you’re younger, you might justify paying a bit more for amenities that enhance lifestyle. Second, if you’re older or planning a family, prioritizing safety and practical convenience will pay off in daily life.

Recognizing these differences can also guide discussions with your realtor or when negotiating with sellers.

Practical takeaway: Know which factors are negotiable for you and which aren’t. Align your priorities with your lifestyle rather than market hype or trends.

How Buyers Can Make 2026 Work for Them?

If you’re thinking about buying a home next year, the key is to plan strategically rather than just reacting to the market. Start by calculating your budget realistically—not just the mortgage, but maintenance, taxes, and lifestyle costs. A slight miscalculation now can turn a dream home into a financial headache later.

Next, prioritize neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle. Look for a balance of community, amenities, and convenience. If shared spaces like gyms or co-working areas matter to you, factor that in. Also, consider commute times, schools, and access to daily essentials. Small decisions here can make a big difference to your day-to-day life.

Finally, leverage current market trends. With moderate home price increases and slightly lower mortgage rates projected for 2026, you may have an opportunity to get more value for your money. Be ready to act when conditions align with your goals.

If you’re considering senior-friendly financing options, it’s worth reading about how reverse mortgages can help older buyers purchase homes.

Practical takeaway: Make a checklist of your financial limits, must-have neighborhood features, and lifestyle priorities. Use it to compare homes objectively and avoid impulse decisions.

Closing Insights — Why 2026 Could Be Your Year

Looking at all the trends, one thing is clear: 2026 is shaping up to be a unique opportunity for buyers. High purchase intent, manageable price growth, and a focus on community and amenities make it a favorable time to enter the market.

But here’s the truth I always share with buyers: success isn’t just about timing the market perfectly. It’s about knowing what you truly want, understanding your budget, and being willing to compromise wisely. Homes aren’t just investments—they’re the places where your life unfolds. Choosing the right one matters.

So here’s my question to you: what matters most in your next home—location, community, amenities, or affordability? Take a moment to think about it, because the clearer you are about your priorities, the smarter your 2026 home-buying decisions will be.

Share your top priority in the comments or with a friend—sometimes talking it through helps you realize what matters most and makes your next move much easier.

If you want more insights on mortgage strategies, budgeting tips, and neighborhood guides, check out our Home Buying section for detailed guides and tools that can help you plan smarter.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Individual circumstances vary, so always consult a qualified professional before making home-buying decisions. The data and insights presented are based on surveys and market forecasts available at the time of writing.