Everyone’s waiting for that flawless moment. The interest rate to drop. The market to “cool off.” The stars to align just right. But here’s the reality: the market doesn’t hand out freebies. You think you’re holding out for perfection, but often what you’re doing is paying more—for what you do anyway.
The Wait Game Costs You One Way or Another
If mortgage rates drop, guess what happens? More buyers dive in. Demand jumps. Home prices start creeping upward. If you wait for rates to rise, your monthly payment goes up. Affordability suffers.
One recent report shows that home prices are still increasing, even as high mortgage rates squeeze buyers. For example, the median existing-home sale price rose about 0.2% year-over-year to $422,400 in July 2025. That’s the highest July on record. (Bankrate)
Meanwhile, Bankrate found that expecting lower rates could backfire: if rates do drop, many more buyers enter the market, pushing prices up fast. (Bankrate)
Stats That Show Waiting Isn’t Free
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Since 2021, mortgage interest rates have climbed from historic lows (~2.6% in early 2021) to over 6%, hurting affordability. (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau)
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Many prospective buyers cite “home prices too high” and “cannot afford a down payment” as the top barriers. According to Bankrate’s Home Affordability Report, 83% of U.S. adults who don’t yet own a home say cost and rate issues prevent them from buying. (Bankrate)
These aren’t just abstract numbers. They translate into “you pay more later for the home or pay more monthly.” Waiting rarely reduces cost; it more often shifts where the cost appears.
Great Quotes That Nail It
“People spend all this time trying to figure out ‘What time of the year should I make an investment? When should I invest?’ And it’s such a waste of time. It’s so futile.” — Peter Lynch (Novel Investor)
“I would not advise [homebuyers] to ever try to time any market.” — Garett Seney, mortgage adviser (Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp)
These wise voices remind us: timing is tempting, but nearly impossible to pull off without regret.
So What’s the Real Question You Should Be Asking?
The decision isn’t “when will rates be perfect?” or “when will home prices dip just enough?” The real decision is: Is your life and your finances ready?
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Do you have stable income?
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Are you ready to commit long-term to a location?
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Can you handle the ongoing costs (maintenance, insurance, taxes)?
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Do you benefit more from buying now vs. renting longer?
Because the market won’t send you an invitation. It’ll just send you the bill.
What Experts Say
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Analysts predict if mortgage rates fall toward 6%, home sales could increase 10-15% in 2026, as many buyers who’ve been priced out return to the market. (barrons.com)
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Prices are expected to keep rising — though more slowly. According to the latest housing market outlooks, home price growth of 2-3% is projected for 2025, even amidst higher rates. (jpmorgan.com)
Bottom Line: Don’t Wait for Perfection, Align with Preparedness
Waiting for the “perfect” time often just means watching opportunities pass. Whether you pay in a higher price tag now or a higher monthly payment later, there is always a cost. The smart move is to buy when you’re ready—when your finances, your life goals, and your priorities align.
Want Help Deciding When You’re Ready?
If you're thinking about buying or selling, let’s talk strategy. I'm Wyatt Poindexter with The Agency Oklahoma. I help smart people make informed decisions—not waiting on perfect timing, but making timing work for them.
WyattPoindexter - The Agency
405-417-5466
[email protected]
www.TheAgencyRE.com
Let’s find your right moment together (so you don’t end up waiting—and paying—for the “perfect” time).
