Home buying huh? Let’s talk about it. But let’s not just talk about it in the abstract — let’s look at what other buyers have actually experienced, nationally. The National Association of REALTORS released their 2023 report, “Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers,” and there’s a lot in it that a home buyer can learn from people who’ve already been through the process. Here’s what the data says about how people are buying homes right now.
“A man only learns in two ways, one by reading,
and the other by association with smarter people.” – Will Rogers
Starting the Search Online:
41% of prospective homebuyers started their search by looking at online listings. That’s a big part of why I put so much work into my website — I want it to be a real resource across the Austin-San Antonio region, not just a placeholder.
Real Estate Agents: That’s me!
20% of buyers started by reaching out to a real estate agent directly — that’s where I come in. Even with all the online tools available, having an actual person to talk to still matters: 90% of buyers said their real estate agent was a valuable source of information throughout the process.
The Home Search Itself:
Buyers spent an average of 10 weeks searching and looked at a median of seven homes. Four of those seven homes, on average, were viewed only online — virtual tours and listing photos have changed how much legwork buyers do before ever stepping inside a house. One thing I tell buyers: don’t look for a perfect house, look for 80% perfect. The other 20% is on you to make it yours — that’s what turns a house into your home.
The Hard Part:
59% of buyers said finding the right home was their biggest challenge. Sorting through the options and matching them to your budget takes real work. The earlier you connect with me, the easier I can make that part of the process.
Everyone’s Online Now:
100% of buyers used the internet at some point in their search. The things they found most useful were photos, detailed property info, floor plans, and an agent’s contact details. Have you looked at homes on my site yet? I never make you register. I want it to be useful to you, and I’m here when you need me — not pushy, not salesy, just available from your first search to your closing.
How Buyers Felt About the Process:
92% of recent buyers said they were satisfied with their home-buying experience. (Insert the streamers and falling balloons.) Between the online tools and working with an agent (me again), most buyers get through the process and end up happy with where they land.
The home-buying process has changed a lot with technology, but the basics haven’t: good information, the right guidance, and some persistence. If you’re starting your own search, I’m happy to help however I can.
For more information or if you would lke to talk about your real estate needs, feel free to reach out to me, Robbie English REALTOR and Broker at Uncommon Realty.
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