Do prospective home buyers prefer online research or physical visits?

According to the survey, 42.7% used model house visits as an information source, and 24.8% found them most useful, showing a strong preference for physical confirmation as the final decision factor.

When is the typical timing to consider buying a new house?

Key triggers include feeling that rent is a waste of money (29.3%) and the growth or school enrollment of children (27.4%).

What are the benefits of visiting a model house?

It allows buyers to check the actual scale, texture, and layout that images cannot fully convey, while providing an opportunity for direct consultation with professionals.

New Home Buyers Prioritize Physical Inspections Over Web Research, Survey Finds

Published May 18, 2026 11:00 PM ・ Updated Jun 2, 2026 1:04 PM ・ 4 min read ・ Source: PR TIMES

NEXER and Eiwa Housing's joint survey of 157 prospective homebuyers reveals that despite the digital age, 'Visiting Model Houses' remains the most utilized (42.7%) and helpful (24.8%) information source. Economic triggers like rent dissatisfaction and life events such as child growth are the primary motivators for house hunting.

Survey on Realities of New Home Purchase Consideration and Information Gathering

Buying a new house is one of the most significant purchases in a lifetime. Potential buyers navigate through numerous factors such as land selection, floor plans, financial planning, and after-sales support.

NEXER Co., Ltd., in collaboration with Eiwa Housing, conducted an awareness survey among 157 men and women nationwide who have searched for a new house. The survey highlighted that while information is easily accessible via websites and portals, physical confirmation of buildings remains a top priority.

### Survey Overview - **Method:** Internet survey - **Period:** May 1, 2026 – May 8, 2026 - **Target:** Men and women nationwide who have searched for new detached houses - **Valid Samples:** 157

### Key Findings

**1. Motivation: 29.3% Cited "Wasting money on rent"** The top reason for considering a purchase was feeling that continuing to pay rent was wasteful (29.3%). This was followed by "Child's growth (schooling/advancement)" at 27.4%, "Birth/Pregnancy" at 21.0%, and "Marriage" at 19.7%. Life stage changes combined with the burden of rent are major catalysts.

**2. Information Sources: 42.7% Visited Model Houses/Open Houses** When asked about methods for gathering information, the most common response was "Visiting model houses or open houses" at 42.7%. This was followed by "Direct consultation with real estate companies" (34.4%) and "Visiting housing exhibitions" (33.8%). All top three methods involve face-to-face interaction or physical visits, indicating that buyers want to make concrete judgments based on real objects and expert advice.

**3. Most Helpful Source: 24.8% Voted for "Model House Visits"** Reflecting the usage rates, 24.8% of respondents felt that visiting model houses was the most helpful method. Direct consultation (19.1%) and housing exhibitions (17.2%) followed. This reinforces the value of on-site and in-person information in the home-buying process.

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Source: PR TIMES
Category: Survey

New Home Buyers Prioritize Physical Inspections Over Web Research, Survey Finds

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Survey on Realities of New Home Purchase Consideration and Information Gathering

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