Home Buyers May 2026

This group has plummeted to the lowest share since 1981, with the median age rising to 40 years old . Key Market Trends & Projections

Cleanliness remains the #1 dealbreaker for 44% of buyers, while neighborhood quality (71%) and views (38%) are the primary dealmakers. home buyers

Remain the largest buyer group, frequently making all-cash offers or large down payments using equity from previous homes. This group has plummeted to the lowest share

Experts and recent surveys highlight the psychological shift among current prospective buyers. Experts and recent surveys highlight the psychological shift

Nominal home prices are expected to rise modestly by 1% to 3% , but because wages are growing at a faster rate (3.6%+), the "real" cost of buying is technically declining for many.

While their overall share has slipped, Older Millennials (ages 36–45) are now the highest-earning homebuyer generation, with a median household income of $132,700 .

Former high-cost metros like San Francisco, San Jose, and Los Angeles have entered undervalued territory following recent price corrections. Buyer Priorities & Negotiating Power