What’s Driving Buyer Behavior in 2026: 4 Shifts You Should Know
Inventory, negotiation power, rate expectations, and lifestyle needs are shaping buyer behavior in 2026. Here’s what it means and how to plan smart.

Inventory, negotiation power, rate expectations, and lifestyle needs are shaping buyer behavior in 2026. Here’s what it means and how to plan smart.

After years of fast-rising home prices, many buyers are understandably hoping for a market correction. But are we headed for a crash—or is something else happening? According to Bob Schildt, a trusted loan officer who works closely with buyers across market cycles, the outlook isn’t nearly as dramatic as the headlines suggest.

With housing affordability stretched and mortgage rates still higher than pre-2020 levels, many would-be buyers are wondering: Should I keep renting, or is it finally time to buy? According to Bob Schildt, a trusted loan officer with years of experience guiding homebuyers, the answer isn’t just about the monthly payment—it’s about the long-term impact.


