Cash Buyers Pull Back Faster Than Housing Market as Cash Sales Fade, Realtor.com® Report Finds

In early 2026, cash purchases accounted for 31.4% of home sales, down from the outsized share seen previously, as easing prices, improving inventory, and a more balanced market brought more financed buyers back. The shift suggests housing demand is broadening beyond cash-heavy buyers, though it does not imply a major nationwide market shock.

Analysis

In early 2026, cash purchases accounted for 31.4% of home sales, down from the outsized share seen previously, as easing prices, improving inventory, and a more balanced market brought more financed buyers back. The shift suggests housing demand is broadening beyond cash-heavy buyers, though it does not imply a major nationwide market shock.