← DPA Finder
Menu
Information only. DPA Finder is not a lender or a government agency, and is not affiliated with HUD or any housing agency. Always confirm eligibility with the program administrator.

First-time buyers fell to 21% of home purchases, a record low

Published · Homebuyer update · By the DPA Finder editorial team

NAR's 2026 generational trends report found first-time buyers were 21% of buyers, the lowest share since it began tracking in 1981.

The National Association of REALTORS® reported on April 15, 2026 that first-time buyers made up 21% of all home buyers in its latest survey, down from 24% in the previous survey and the lowest share since NAR began collecting the data in 1981.

Among younger millennials who bought, 60% were first-time buyers (down from 71% the year before). The survey covered primary-residence buyers who purchased between July 2024 and June 2025, with 6,103 responses.

Down payment and closing costs remain one of the main hurdles for first-time buyers. If you are one, start with your state's housing finance agency programs and our cash-to-close calculator to see how much assistance could cover.

Sources

Related on DPA Finder

More updates