A lot of people want to buy a home, but they feel stuck in “wait and see” mode. Maybe you’re one of them. You’re holding your breath, hoping prices will fall or rates will come back down. But while you’re waiting, the market is moving — without you.
The reality is, trying to time the market rarely works. The longer you sit on the sidelines, the harder it may get to jump in later. That’s why your trusted REMAX® agent is here to share a simple but powerful truth: Time in the Market Beats Timing the Market.
Prices May Continue To Go Up While You Wait
Homeownership is about the long game — and home prices typically rise over time. Even though the days of double-digit price jumps are behind us, steady growth is expected for the foreseeable future.
In fact, each quarter, more than 100 industry professionals weigh in through the Home Price Expectations Survey (HPES) from Fannie Mae. And based on that data, home prices will rise nationally through at least 2029. Not runaway growth — just healthy, sustainable appreciation around 3-4% per year (see graph below):
And that’s exactly what makes the next few years such a critical window for buyers. It means prices will continue to rise nationally. Sure, there will be some areas where price trends vary. Let’s say a local market has a surplus of homes for sale — that could result in prices easing in that market. But even in markets experiencing more modest price growth or slight short-term declines, the long game of homeownership usually wins over time.
In most areas, prices will only inch higher in the years ahead. And that could cost you more if you wait.
How Much Waiting Could Cost You
Let’s put this into perspective, because it can add up quickly. In this example, let’s say you’re looking for a $400,000 home. Based on the HPES forecasts, that same home could be worth nearly $80,000 more just five years from now (see graph below):
That’s $80K you could be gaining in home value — or losing out on if you keep sitting on the sidelines.
Next year’s home prices will likely be higher than this year’s. And that’ll happen each year for at least the next five years. That’s the time in the market piece. Once you buy, the value of your home will likely climb over time, giving you more equity and wealth.
So, here’s what to keep in mind. Even if mortgage rates come down slightly (and that’s a big “if”), you’re still looking at a higher purchase price a few years from now.
Real estate rewards those who act, not those who wait for the stars to align.
So, When’s the Right Time To Move?
Only you can answer that. If you need to move and you can make the numbers work right now, it may be worth taking the plunge. Waiting could end up costing you far more than jumping in now. And if you have to adjust your price point or look into assistance programs to get your foot in the door, chances are that’s worth doing.
Your trusted REMAX agent and a great lender will help you understand your options and guide you through smart next steps. Because the reality is, there may never be a “perfect” market — but there is a perfect time for you based on your goals.
The key is making a move that sets you up for success, instead of missing out while you wait for a future that may not unfold the way you hope.
Bottom Line
When it comes to buying a home, the saying still holds true: yesterday was the best time to buy, but the next best time is today.
Are you curious about what home prices are doing in our local market? Reach out to your trusted REMAX agent for the latest data. Let’s take a look together, talk about what’s possible, and see if moving now makes sense for you.