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53% of Homebuyers Budget Below $400,000 as Median Hits $417,500

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53% of Homebuyers Budget Below $400,000 as Median Hits $417,500

Lake City, Colo. – November 05, 2026 -- More than 53% of prospective homebuyers say their realistic buying range is $400,000 or less, below the $417,500 median existing-home price, according to COGNITION Smart Data affordability research from Green Builder Media.

Survey shows one in five buyers cannot afford homes above $200,000

More than one-fifth of respondents say they cannot afford a home priced above $200,000. The survey points to a price gap in today's home buying market.

Energy report tracks buyer and builder attitudes from 2024 to 2026

The 2026 COGNITION Energy Insights Report covers demand for all-electric homes, renewables, battery storage and self-sufficiency. It also examines which energy features buyers may value at a premium.