Is the Homebuying Process Working for You—or Just the Industry? Let’s Break It Down

Hello Hampton Roads,

Feeling rushed, unheard, or overwhelmed while trying to buy a home? You’re not alone.

Last spring in Virginia Beach’ a first-time buyer nearly lost their dream home—not because their offer was too low, but because they weren’t ready to sign in 48 hours. They felt rushed through closing disclosures and had questions about flood-zone insurance. Sound familiar?

The 2025 Cotality Report uncovers this exact tension: our industry’s obsession with pace often outstrips buyers’ need for confidence. In Virginia Beach and across Hampton Roads, the secret to a smoother journey isn’t speed—it’s better timing, clear explanations, and an agent who listens when every minute counts.

📌Key Takeaways for Buyers

✅ You’re not wrong to want more time, clarity, and emotional support. 

✅ The industry’s pace doesn’t always serve your best interests—slow down and ask questions. 

✅ Your generation’s values matter—use them to guide your search.

✅ The right agent will listen, educate, and advocate for you—not just close deals.

🚧 The Speed Trap—Why the Industry’s Pace Might Be Failing You

The process can feel like a conveyor belt—one where you're expected to make life-changing decisions in days, not weeks. There is time to move quickly and there is a time to slow down. It's important to get your offer in quickly especially when there is a submission deadline and it's also important to slow down if you have questions. When speed becomes the default, important conversations about financing options, neighborhood dynamics, and long-term goals often get skipped or rushed. 

• Instant alerts vs. meaningful updates
• E-closings vs. plain-language fee walkthroughs
• AI underwriting vs. real-time human check-ins

“Buyers feel rushed, unheard, and often overwhelmed by the pace of transactions.” —Cotality Report 2025

💡The Confidence Gap—Where Clarity Matters Most

Buyers call for speed, but what they truly need is certainty. The report found:

• Only 7% of buyers described the process as straightforward

• 70% gave up a wish-list item by closing, up from 33% at the start

• Many had questions they never asked—either because they felt they should already know the answers or didn’t know whom to ask

Timely, plain-English explanations at key moments—like a quick breakdown of escrow, or a heads-up on HOA fees—can transform hesitation into momentum.

👥Generational Mindsets

Here’s what homebuyers truly want, broken down by generation.

Generation	Mindset	What They Want	Biggest Challenge
Gen Z (18–27)	Confident… until they’re not	Convenience-first; digital tools with human backup	Fragile confidence; insurance and legal stress
Millennials (28–43)	Burnt-out buyers?	Online calculators; AI support for insurance/mortgage	Decision fatigue; low trust in professionals
Gen X (44–59)	Confused but committed	Clear fees/contracts; patient, reliable guidance	Juggling family; fear of missing crucial details
Boomers (60+)	Trust the process	Step-by-step human support; cost-conscious advice	Less forgiving if trust is broken;  prefer familiar methods

• Gen Z & Millennials: You want transparency, eco-conscious features, and vibrant communities.
• Gen X: You’re focused on school districts, long-term equity, and flexible financing.
• Boomers: You’re looking to downsize, simplify, and find accessible homes.

🧠 Frequently Asked Questions for Homebuyers

• 1. Why does buying a home feel so emotionally overwhelming?
  Because it is. You’re making one of the biggest decisions of your life, and the industry often overlooks the emotional weight of that. You deserve support, not just speed—especially when navigating financing, inspections, and negotiations.
• 2. How can I avoid decision fatigue during the homebuying process?
  Start by working with someone who helps you prioritize. A great agent will break things down into manageable steps, explain your options clearly, and give you space to think—without pressure.
• 3. Why does the homebuying process feel so rushed?
  Many platforms and agents prioritize speed over personalization. You deserve time to ask questions, understand your options, and make confident decisions without pressure.
• 4. What should I look for in a neighborhood?
  Think beyond curb appeal—consider walkability, school districts, future development plans, and overall community vibe. Your lifestyle should guide your location.
• 5. How can I tell if my agent really understands my needs?
  Look for someone who listens, educates, and adapts to your pace. The best agents don’t just close deals—they build trust and help you feel empowered throughout the process.

➡️Your Next Steps—How to Buy with Confidence

• Audit your timeline. Map out when you need clarity versus when you can move quickly—especially around offer deadlines or rate locks.
• Vet agents on empathy and timing. Ask for their “micro-moment” communication plan: how often they’ll check in, and by what medium.
• Plug into local incentives. Explore Hampton Roads’ gap-financing programs for down payment assistance, closing costs help or both —then lean on an expert who knows how to apply them.

📝 Summary & Conclusion

IIf you’ve ever felt that buying a home in Hampton Roads was a whirlwind, you’re not alone. The Cotality data shows timing misfires create hesitation, unseen trade-offs, and stalled deals. Flip the script: audit your process, demand clarity from your partners such as your agent, your lender, your title company at every key step, and leverage local programs to buy with certainty. Contact me to build a timeline that matches your pace—and finally cross the threshold with confidence.

Want to Buy Smarter, Not Faster?

You deserve a homebuying experience that’s thoughtful, empowering, and tailored to your life. Schedule a free discovery call with  me, Liz Schuyler to explore your options, understand local incentives, and find the home that truly fits.

📅 Book Your Free Call

Thanks for Reading,

____________________________

Liz Schuyler, Virginia Beach Real Estate Agent
RE/MAX Allegiace

𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸𝗹𝘆, 𝗠𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗿… 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗘𝗾𝘂𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿

Don’t let your home’s value drift off like a Southern breeze. I help sellers unlock hidden equity with strategic pricing, incentive insights, and marketing that moves buyers to act.

Let’s make sure your equity doesn’t become a fading memory.

Book your call here: https://calendly.com/liz-schuyler