What the superrich want in a home in 2026
Ultrawealthy homebuyers are prioritizing living in places where there money goes further, and where they can live longer, healthy lives.
Luxury homebuyers in 2026 are focused on specific features and locations that cater to their needs and desires. According to Sotheby's International Realty's 2026 Mid-Year luxury outlook survey, 55% of real-estate professionals worldwide specializing in properties priced at $10 million and above have seen an increase in luxury homebuyers in their local markets compared to the previous year.
Philip A. White Jr., president and CEO of Sotheby's International Realty, noted that the affluent remain engaged and confident in the luxury housing market, despite being deliberate but not deterred.
One significant trend among ultrawealthy homebuyers is the desire for homes that allow them to age in place. Nearly 40% of real estate professionals surveyed by Sotheby's International Realty indicated that aging in place is a growing priority among homebuyers. Luxury buyers are opting for homes with health and wellness amenities, such as saunas, cold plunges, red-light therapy, advanced air and water filtration, and easy access to the outdoors through nearby hiking or walking trails.
Some are also interested in integrated health-monitoring technology or in-home staff, if their budget allows.
Another market that continues to attract luxury buyers is Miami, particularly downtown Miami. While home sales are still down across the country, the luxury end of the real estate market is thriving due to factors like increased inventory, strong stock market performance, and the ability of wealthier buyers to pay with cash, disregarding mortgage rates. Several celebrities and billionaires, such as Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg, have purchased multimillion-dollar homes in the Miami area.
Milan is also gaining popularity among ultrawealthy homebuyers due to global uncertainty and the city's tax incentives and residency-by-investment program, which provides access to the Schengen Area. This has attracted a significant number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals both for residency and as second-home buyers. The combination of Italy's tax regime and the city's appeal has led to a shift from purchasing second homes to buying primary residences.
Lastly, the AI industry's growth in the Bay Area has breathed new life into San Francisco's luxury real estate market. Younger affluent buyers, often young professionals or entrepreneurs from family wealth, are returning to San Francisco due to job opportunities in the tech industry. These buyers are seeking move-in-ready homes with flexible living spaces and walkable neighborhoods, reflecting the area's thriving innovation and technological advancements.
Written by urgent.news from Business Insider's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
