Higher home prices and elevated mortgage interest rates are not stopping motivated buyers, according to the newest Bank of America Homebuyer Insights Report. The annual report surveyed 2,000 U.S. renters and homeowners during the spring of 2026. Here are the highlights from the report, along with our own insights!
Home buyers are seeking stability and security. 94% of respondents said that home ownership provides a sense of stability. Having control over one’s own housing is a primary motive for many buyers. The majority of respondents recognize the long-term value of home ownership.
Buyers see home ownership as an investment. 90% of respondents say that a home is a valuable investment. In 2025, the average U.S. homeowner with a mortgage held approximately $295,000 to $299,000 in total accumulated home equity. While there are no guarantees that any specific home will increase in value, home ownership offers the opportunity to build equity.
Home ownership is emotionally fulfilling. 86% of respondents said owning a home brings a sense of accomplishment and is emotionally satisfying.
Home ownership beats renting. 53% of survey respondents say it’s better to buy a home than to rent. This is the first time home ownership has beaten renting in respondent opinion since 2023.
Home affordability remains an issue. 58% of respondents say that high home prices have prevented them from buying a home. This is up from 46% in 2025. The desire for home ownership is strong, but most respondents say that home buying is more expensive today than it was just a year ago.
Gen Z buyers are willing to adapt, rather than wait. About 28% of Gen Z respondents said they are willing to take on extra jobs to afford a home. 32% are willing to co-buy a home with friends or family. 31% planned to explore down payment assistance programs.
Most buyers still want a professional to help them during the home buying process. 54% of respondents said they prefer human expertise for managing the contracts and legal elements. 55% prefer having an agent at their side when touring homes for sale.
Exclusive Buyer Representation makes all the difference in your home buying experience! We help home buyers save money and avoid pitfalls at virtually every step of the home buying process. In fact, our buyer-centric purchase contracts give you protections that typical “dual” agents cannot offer. Learn how we make a difference by reading our free e-book, “How to Buy a Home like a Pro.” There is no obligation, and the information is yours to keep.
As Exclusive Buyer’s Brokers, we serve your best interests at all times! Unlike real estate agents and brokerages who represent sellers, as an Exclusive Buyer’s Broker, we only represent you, the buyer, getting you the best price and terms with no conflict of interest, at all times.
Understanding this distinction could literally save you thousands of dollars not only on the purchase price and terms, but also on seller concessions and home inspection issues, whether you are a first-time homebuyer or an experienced homeowner!
Contact us with your home buying questions! Remember, we are with you every step of the way…all the way home!
Andrew Show
Exclusive Buyer’s Broker, CEBA-M, MCNE, CSP, PSA,e-PRO, CREM, ABRM, AHWD
Buyer’s Resource Realty Services www.BuyersHome.com
Serving Metro Columbus, Ohio with Exclusive Buyer’s Agents
7100 North High Street, Suite 204, Worthington, Ohio 43085
614-888-4110 | 888-888-4110 Toll Free | 614-839-4110 Fax
