Why Do Homebuyers Still Say They’re Glad They Bought?
“Will I regret buying a home right now?”
This is a question I often hear from buyers who are considering purchasing a home. With the rising cost of living and mortgage rates still higher than many had hoped, it’s understandable to hesitate before making such a major financial decision.
But how do people who have already purchased a home feel about their decision?
According to an October 12, 2026, article from Keeping Current Matters, a recent NerdWallet survey found that 74% of recent homebuyers are happy they purchased their current home, while only 3% say they regret their decision. This suggests that even in a challenging housing market, many buyers remain satisfied with their purchase. Of course, that doesn't mean buying a home right now is the right choice for everyone.
When deciding whether to buy, it's important to look beyond today's mortgage rates or predictions about next year's home prices. You should also consider how long you plan to live in the home.
A home is more than just a financial investment. It's where your family's everyday life unfolds, and it can also be a long-term asset. As you pay down your mortgage principal, you build equity—the portion of the home's value that you own. If property values rise, your equity may grow even further. However, home values can also decline, and it's important to remember that your total equity isn't necessarily the amount you'll walk away with when you sell. Selling expenses must also be considered.
For buyers searching in the Chicago suburbs, I encourage you to connect this long-term perspective with your family's lifestyle and future plans.
Whether you're considering Naperville, Northbrook, Glenview, or another community, factors such as school districts, commute times, living space, and how long you expect to stay should all play a role in your decision. Someone who may need to move again in a few years will likely evaluate the same property differently from someone planning to settle down for the long term.
In Illinois, it's especially important not to base your budget on the purchase price alone.
Your actual housing costs include mortgage principal and interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA fees, and ongoing maintenance and repairs. You should also consider whether you'll have sufficient emergency savings after paying your down payment and closing costs, and whether you can continue saving for your children's education and retirement while comfortably maintaining the home.
It's also wise to avoid purchasing a home that stretches your current budget simply because you expect to refinance at a lower interest rate in the future.
When comparing renting and buying, looking only at monthly rent versus mortgage payments doesn't tell the whole story.
Renting offers flexibility, making it easier to relocate or adjust to changing circumstances. Homeownership, on the other hand, comes with maintenance responsibilities and additional expenses, but it can also provide greater stability and opportunities to build long-term wealth.
Neither option is automatically better. The right choice depends on your financial situation and future plans.
It's difficult to predict the perfect time to buy a home. But you can determine what you can comfortably afford and which home truly fits your family's needs.
If you're deciding whether to buy a home, continue renting, or sell your current property and move, feel free to contact Chicago Bokdeokbang.
I'll be happy to help you evaluate your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans—and, for sellers, what comes next after the sale—so you can make a practical, informed real estate decision.
Chicago Realtor | Sang Han
773-717-2227
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