What do buyers underestimate the most?

Insight

Nearly two-thirds of respondents believe buyers underestimate the surprises that come after move-in, while no one selected the time needed to find the right home. The results suggest that buyers see the search process as manageable, but recognize that the biggest unknowns often begin after the purchase is complete.

What Most People Miss

Unexpected discoveries after moving in feel different because they have no easy "undo" button. If you want to reduce surprises, think beyond the property itself. Make a list of everything you take for granted in your current home, how the rooms feel throughout the day, noise levels, storage needs, neighbors, and daily routines. These are often the things that don't come to mind during a showing, yet they shape how satisfying a home feels once you move in.

Buyers spend a great deal of time choosing a home, maybe dedicating more time imagining everyday life inside it it's underestimated.

And by the way, what are these inevitable surprises? We'll explore that question in a future poll.

What would make you walk away from an otherwise perfect home?

Insight

An overwhelming majority of respondents would walk away from an otherwise perfect home because of a difficult HOA or condo association, while price ranked a distant second. Nearby construction and a small kitchen had almost no impact on respondents' decisions.

The results suggest that buyers are willing to compromise on a home's features and even stretch financially, but are far less willing to compromise on factors that could affect their daily living experience long after closing.

What Most People Miss

Before seeing the results, we expected more votes for a small kitchen. After all, kitchens are often considered the heart of the home, where meals are shared and spontaneous conversations happen.

Instead, respondents overwhelmingly selected a difficult HOA or condo association.

This may reflect something particularly relevant in South Florida. Condo living offers many conveniences: maintenance, security, and the freedom to lock the door and travel without worrying about the property. For many owners, especially seasonal residents and frequent travelers, that convenience is part of the appeal.

It's true that associations influence everyday life through rules, governance, and decision-making, but these are often necessary to maintain an orderly and well-functioning community. For many owners, especially those who value convenience and peace of mind, it may be a worthwhile tradeoff.

Header image courtesy of Constanza Fernandez. 10295 Collins Avenue, #1606, Bal Harbour, FL. View property here.

^{Poll conducted across Fortune Christie’s social media platforms in 2026. Responses include buyers, sellers, and agents.}