First-time buyers accounted for 22% of home purchases in NAR's 2026 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, up slightly from last year's record low of 21%, and their median age held at a record-tying 40. The typical first-time buyer put 9% down. In Texas, state programs from TDHCA and TSAHC may offer eligible buyers up to 5% of the loan amount for down payment and closing costs.
First-time buyer share ticks up from a record low
The National Association of REALTORS released its 2026 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers on Nov. 5, 2026. Covering transactions from July 2025 to June 2026, it found first-time buyers made up 22% of purchases, up from 21% a year earlier. Repeat buyers accounted for the other 78%.
NAR Deputy Chief Economist Jessica Lautz said "affordability remains the biggest hurdle for first-time buyers." In her top 10 takeaways, she noted the share rose slightly, helped by a brief dip in mortgage rates during the survey period.
Older buyers and more cash
The median age of first-time buyers held at 40, matching the all-time high, compared with 30 in 2010. First-time buyers who financed had a median age of 38, while all-cash first-time buyers had a median age of 54. Repeat buyers' median age reached 62, also an all-time high, up from 36 in 1981. Among first-time buyers, 47% were married couples, 25% single women, 12% single men and 11% unmarried couples, according to NAR.
A record 10% of first-time buyers paid cash. NAR said 28% of first-time all-cash buyers used an inheritance, compared with 9% of first-time buyers who financed.
Down payments: 9% for first-time buyers
The median down payment was 9% for first-time buyers and 19% for repeat buyers. First-time buyers most often drew on personal savings (62%), followed by financial assets such as a 401(k), stocks or crypto (30%), gifts or loans from family and friends (25%) and inheritance (10%, a record).
A 9% median does not mean buyers need that much. Some loan programs allow smaller down payments, such as 3.5% for qualified FHA borrowers or no down payment for eligible VA and USDA loans. Our down payment guide explains common options.
Texas down payment assistance: TDHCA and TSAHC
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs runs My First Texas Home, which pairs a 30-year mortgage with down payment assistance for first-time buyers; TDHCA notes exceptions in targeted areas and for qualified veterans. A TDHCA program flyer describes up to 5% of the first mortgage amount for down payment and closing costs, use with FHA, VA or USDA loans and a 620 minimum credit score. Income and purchase price limits apply, and TDHCA requires an approved homebuyer education course. My Choice Texas Home does not require first-time buyer status.
The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation offers up to 5% of the loan amount through Homes for Texas Heroes (for teachers, police, firefighters, EMS, veterans and other listed professions) and Home Sweet Texas. TSAHC says assistance may come as a grant, a deferred second lien forgiven after three years, or a deferred second lien repaid on sale, refinance or payoff. Both agencies also offer Mortgage Credit Certificates, a federal tax credit for eligible buyers.
What this means for Texas borrowers
If saving for a down payment is your biggest hurdle, state assistance may help close the gap, but terms differ. A grant does not have to be repaid, while some second liens must be repaid when you sell or refinance. Eligibility depends on income, price limits, credit and the participating lender, so confirm details before you make an offer.
Start with our first-time homebuyer guide and down payment assistance page, estimate payments with the rate calculator, and find a loan officer who works with these programs.
Sources
- First-Time Home Buyer Share Inches Up to 22%, Median Age Remains at Record High of 40, National Association of REALTORS (November 5, 2026)
- Top 10 Takeaways from NAR's 2026 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, National Association of REALTORS (November 5, 2026)
- TDHCA Homebuyer Programs, Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
- TDHCA My First Texas Home (lender flyer), Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
- Homebuyer Programs, Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation
This article is for general information about the mortgage market and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Figures come from the sources listed and may have changed since publication. Rates and averages cited are published market data, not an offer or HomyLoan rates. HomyLoan, LLC is a licensed mortgage broker, Company NMLS 2783307, not a lender. All loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Equal Housing Opportunity.
