The housing market is full of interesting contradictions, but one thing is clear: 2026 is still a strong time to sell your home, especially if you understand what home buyers are looking for today.
According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) 2025 Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers, homeowners are staying in their homes longer than ever, with a median tenure of 11 years. Many owners are sitting still due to ultra-low mortgage rates, creating tight inventory across the country. That limited supply is exactly what’s keeping home sellers in an advantageous position.
Here’s what you need to know about today’s home buyers AND how to maximize your opportunities to sell your home.
Who’s Buying a Home? (Hint: They’re Not Who You Might Expect)
1. Older, Equity-Rich Home Buyers Are Dominating the Market
The median age of a repeat buyer is now 62 years old, and many are using equity from previous homes to pay cash or make substantial down payments.
2. All-Cash Buyers Are at a Record High
26% of all purchases this year were made in cash. Cash buyers can move quickly and often compete aggressively for move-in-ready homes.
3. Fewer Home Buyers Have Children
Only 24% of buyers have children under 18. This is down dramatically from past decades. Naturally, this shift affects which layouts and home features are in demand.
What Today’s Home Buyers Want
Even with high interest rates and low inventory, home buyers are making deliberate, value-focused decisions. Trends include:
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Turnkey homes with updated kitchens, baths, and systems
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Low-maintenance living (important to older buyers)
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Energy efficiency and lower utility costs
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Flexible spaces for home offices or aging in place
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Outdoor living features like decks, patios, or scenic yard designs
If your home aligns with these preferences, you’re already ahead.
Why Using a Real Estate Agent to Sell Your Home Matters More Than Ever
The NAR report shows 91% of home sellers used a real estate agent in 2025. That’s a record high! Only 5% went the FSBO route. With complex buyer profiles, pricing challenges, and competitive offer strategies, experienced guidance can translate to a faster sale and stronger net return.
With limited inventory, strong home buyer demand, and an influx of cash-ready purchasers, the real estate market continues to favor home sellers who present and price their homes effectively.
If you're considering a move, now is an excellent time to explore your options and position your home to attract this evolving buyer pool.
Next Steps for Home Sellers
Do you live in the Upper Valley or Dartmouth - Lake Sunapee Region of New Hampshire? Our licensed, local NH REALTORS® are ready to shepherd you through the home selling process.
Contact us at CG Shepherd Realty, LLC to see what your home is worth in today’s market.