For those looking to buy their first home in 2026, financial experts stress the importance of careful planning and understanding the evolving real estate market. Atul Monga, CEO of BASIC Home Loan, advises potential buyers to focus on long-term value creation and assess their loan eligibility and affordability before committing to a purchase. He warns that many costs, such as stamp duty and maintenance fees, are often overlooked, which can lead to financial strain later. Sandeep Ahuja, Global CEO of Atmosphere Living, notes that the current housing market is characterized by end-use demand rather than speculation, with approximately 1.01 lakh units sold in India's top seven cities in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting a 7% drop from the previous quarter. Despite this, property prices are expected to rise by 5-7% annually due to infrastructure development and increasing demand for larger homes. Ahuja emphasizes the importance of evaluating the EMI-to-income ratio and highlights the growing significance of location quality, particularly areas with strong infrastructure. With home loan rates starting around 7%, first-time buyers are encouraged to approach homeownership as a long-term investment, considering developer credibility and future connectivity. Overall, 2026 presents a stable opportunity for disciplined and informed home buying.