Homebuyer’s remorse will hit a new low in 2025, says Realtor.com

With homes on the market for an average of 63 days in October 2025 – nearly two weeks longer than the same month in 2023 – buyers are entering transactions with more caution, clarity and financial preparation.

As a result, 37% of buyers in 2025 said they had no regrets at all, compared to 31% two years earlier.

“As the market has shifted from a fast-paced seller’s market to one that gives buyers more breathing room, we’re seeing the trend of buyer’s remorse diminishing,” said Laura Eddy, vice president of research and insights at Realtor.com.

“Today’s buyers tend to be better qualified and take extra time to weigh their options and make confident decisions – factors that help reduce post-purchase doubts. And for many, that means having even more gratitude for this season.”

Yet not all purchases were frictionless.

Among undecided buyers, the most common pain points remained tied to the realities of homeownership: unexpected maintenance needs (16%), higher-than-expected household expenses (15%), and depleted post-closing savings (14%).

A generation gap also emerged, illustrating how experience determines trust:

• Baby boomers were the least likely to express regret; 60% said their purchase felt good – and only minor issues arose.
• Generation X followed closely: 45% said they had no regrets.
• About a third (34%) of millennials had no regrets, often citing wiped-out savings, surprise maintenance costs and budget pressures.
• Generation Z buyers struggled the most, with only 27% reporting a regret-free purchase, with many citing skipped inspections, higher costs and lifestyle discrepancies such as commutes and neighborhood dissatisfaction.

Younger respondents were also more likely to be blindsided by location compromises, showing how affordability pressures can push first-time buyers further from favored areas.

As their pace slows and expectations are realigned, many seem better equipped for long-term satisfaction.

“Buyers today enter the market with clearer expectations and a stronger financial foundation,” says Eddy. “While affordability remains a challenge, the slower pace has allowed people to make decisions that feel right for them, and that is reflected in lower regret levels across the board.”