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According to the latest National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Generational Trends Report , the market is largely fueled by experienced, repeat buyers.
The 2026 home buying market is defined by a deep generational divide: currently dominate the market using accumulated housing wealth, while first-time buyers have reached a record low due to persistent affordability challenges . Despite these hurdles, 2026 is emerging as a "rebalancing year" where income growth is finally outpacing home price growth, offering modest relief for those entering the market. 2026 Buyer Demographics home buyers
Detail for 2026 (like the Midwest or NYC outskirts). According to the latest National Association of REALTORS®
Rates have stabilized in the low 6% range , with some forecasts predicting they could dip below 6% by late 2026. 2026 Buyer Demographics Detail for 2026 (like the
“Home price growth will be minimal—roughly 2% to 3%—about the same as overall consumer price inflation. Generally, wage growth will be above that. So, it's a year where people's income begins to rise a little faster than consumer price inflation and home...” National Association of REALTORS®
Though a small segment, they are carving a unique path; 53% of Gen Z buyers purchased homes alone last year, more than double the rate of millennials at the same age.
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.