Realtor.com Finds Buyers Reporting Less Regret

(Image courtesy of David Kanigan/pexels.com)

Realtor.com, Santa Clara, Calif., released a new report finding that regret among homebuyers has dropped in recent years.

In 2023, 15% of buyers said they felt regret. In 2025, that share dropped to just 8%.

“As the market has shifted from a fast-paced sellers’ market to one that gives buyers more breathing room, we’re seeing buyer regret trend down,” said Realtor.com Vice President of Research and Insights Laura Eddy. “Today’s buyers are generally more qualified, taking extra time to weigh their options and make confident decisions–factors that are helping reduce second-guessing after purchase.”

For those who did have some regrets, the most common issues included unexpected home maintenance at 16%, higher than anticipated household costs at 15% and hits to savings accounts at 14%.

Regrets varied by generation. Among Baby Boomers, 60% said they had no regrets. For Gen X, 45% said they had no regrets. But, only 34% of millennials said they were lacking regrets, and just 27% of Gen Z buyers said the same.

Current market conditions mean buyers may be deliberating longer and more carefully before making a home purchase.

“Buyers today are entering the market with clearer expectations and stronger financial footing,” Eddy continued. “Even though affordability remains a challenge, the slower pace has allowed people to make decisions that feel right for them, and that’s reflected in lower regret levels across the board.”