More affordable prices would prompt buyers to buy within six months
Homebuyers who pulled back from the 2025 market still want to own – and many are already lining up for 2026, according to a new consumer survey from RE/MAX.
The poll suggested that buyers stay committed to homeownership even as they recalibrate budgets, timelines and expectations in the face of higher rates and sticky prices.
The survey, conducted in partnership with Pollfish in late 2025, covered 1,000 US adults aged 18 to 65 who plan to buy within 18 months.
RE/MAX reported that 88% of respondents said they are “very” or “somewhat likely” to purchase a home in 2026, while 71% said current conditions have delayed their plans rather than derailed them.
Affordability delays plans, not aspirations
“Today’s buyers aren’t just looking for a house – they’re looking for a sense of community,” said Chris Lim, RE/MAX chief growth officer.
“It’s clear that lifestyle and connection are just as important as the property itself. It’s the job of real estate professionals to help prospective buyers find homes and neighborhoods that meet their financial needs while also supporting the way they want to live.”
According to RE/MAX, more than three-quarters of respondents said more affordable prices would prompt them to buy within six months, and 58% said lower mortgage rates would accelerate their decision.
Older buyers, aged 60 to 65, are most focused on the availability of affordable homes, at 78%, the company said. Less than 10% said mortgage rates in the 5% to 6% range would be enough on their own to speed up a purchase.
Another Fed rate cut is widely anticipated, yet mortgage rates near one-year lows suggest the move is already priced in.https://t.co/E5x7VFQR8B
— Mortgage Professional America Magazine (@MPAMagazineUS) December 4, 2025
Community and amenities command a premium
“Sixty percent [of respondents] would pay a premium for shared community amenities, like pools and gyms,” the survey found, with three in four of those willing to pay at least 5% of a home’s price for such features, according to RE/MAX.
Gen Z and millennial buyers stood out: 71% and 67%, respectively, are prepared to pay for shared amenities, compared with under half of Gen X and baby boomers.
“Almost 40% of respondents list a sense of community or neighborhood vibe as a main priority,” RE/MAX reported.
The company said 71% of buyers are willing to pay more for neighborhoods known for strong community engagement and friendly neighbors, with that share rising to 78% among Gen Z.
Over half of respondents said future neighborhood development – from new housing to transit improvements – is “very important” to their decision.
Safety and convenience still rank highly. Nearly 80% of prospective buyers cited safety as a top concern, RE/MAX said, followed by the availability and type of homes.
More than half pointed to proximity to work as a critical geographic factor, along with shopping, restaurants and schools.
Outlook for 2026 affordability
The survey landed as other data pointed to a possible easing in affordability pressures next year.
First American’s Mark Fleming recently said “household income is expected to rise faster than house prices next year,” with affordability projected to improve in 2026 even if it remained well below pre‑pandemic norms.
Fannie Mae has forecast that the 30‑year fixed rate would average a little above 6% in early 2026 before slipping below that threshold by year‑end. Economists at Zillow and Realtor.com also said the housing market appears set for “steadier footing” in 2026.
Broader consumer surveys have also shown buyers stretching to overcome cost barriers. Bankrate found that 64% of Americans were willing to change something – from downsizing to moving out of state – to find more affordable housing.
For mortgage originators, demand has not disappeared, but it has become more selective and more lifestyle‑driven. In 2026, buyers still want in, but only on terms that align both with their budgets and with how and where they want to live.
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