#United States #Austin #Realtor.com #home buyers #buyer remorse

Decline in Buyer Regret Highlights Growing Confidence in the Real Estate Market

The housing market in the United States has been experiencing notable changes recently, especially as the pace has slowed down, prompting homebuyers to rethink their purchasing strategies. According to a study by Realtor.com, the percentage of buyers regretting their home purchase due to concerns about overpayment has significantly decreased from 15% in 2023 to just 8% in 2025. This decline reflects a shift in buyer psychology and decision-making in the current environment.

The Realtor.com 2025 Consumer Attitudes Usage Study indicates that almost 40% of recent homebuyers (37%) reported having no regrets about their purchases, which marks an increase from 31% in 2023. This increase in confidence among buyers comes at a time when the average home sits on the market for a median of 63 days, nearly two weeks longer than the previous year. As families and individuals spend more time comparing their options, they seem to be making more informed decisions that ultimately lead to greater satisfaction.

Laura Eddy, Vice President of Research and Insights at Realtor.com, commented on this trend stating, "As the market transitions from a brisk seller's paradise to one where buyers enjoy more space to breathe, we're witnessing a decrease in buyer regret. Today’s buyers, often better qualified and more discerning, are taking extra steps to weigh their options carefully. This thorough evaluation is leading to fewer instances of second-guessing post-purchase, allowing families to feel more secure and thankful as they settle into their new homes."

However, among the buyers who did feel regret, the reasons varied widely. The most commonly reported issues included unexpected home maintenance costs (16%), higher-than-expected household expenses (15%), and depleted savings accounts (14%). These statistics highlight the challenges some buyers still face, particularly those who enter the market without sufficient preparation.

A Generational Divide in Home Buying Regret

Interestingly, the level of homebuying remorse appears to scale with age. Older generations tend to express more confidence in their purchases, with approximately 60% of Baby Boomers indicating they had no regrets. They often cite minor issues like maintenance or budget concerns. In contrast, younger buyers, particularly Millennials and members of Generation Z, reported significantly higher levels of regret.

• - Generation X: About 45% express no regrets, with their concerns aligning with those of Baby Boomers regarding maintenance and cost.
• - Millennials: Only around one-third (34%) reported feeling regret-free, with empty savings accounts and high maintenance costs being their main challenges.
• - Generation Z: Representing the most regretful cohort, only 27% indicated having no regrets. Their top worries involve skipping inspections and facing higher ownership costs.

This divide between generations underscores the inherent complexities of today’s housing market, as younger buyers must navigate a landscape that balances affordability with lifestyle and location choices.

The Emergence of Informed Buyers

The current findings from Realtor.com signify a substantial evolution in the mindset of homebuyers. As shifting market conditions are prompting slower buying processes, buyers appear more prepared and selective in their choices.

"People entering the market now are carrying clearer expectations and robust financial standings, even amidst affordability challenges," added Eddy. "The more measured pace enables buyers to make decisions aligned with their needs, which is reflected in the declining levels of post-purchase regret across the board."

In conclusion, as the real estate market gradually stabilizes, the profound reduction in buyer remorse can be seen as a harbinger of a more informed, cautious, and ultimately satisfied generation of homeowners. This new approach aligns with the notion that the well-prepared buyer is better positioned to navigate the ups and downs of homeownership and to thrive in a continually evolving market.