When Is the Perfect Time To Move?
It’s tempting to wait for what feels like the “perfect” moment to make your move — especially in today’s real estate market. Maybe you’re hoping mortgage rates will drop or that home prices will fall. But here’s the reality: trying to time the market is rarely a winning strategy. Let’s break down why.
There’s No Such Thing as a Perfect Market
Regardless of when you decide to buy or sell, every market comes with its own set of advantages and trade-offs. That’s not necessarily a bad thing — it’s just how real estate works. To understand this better, let’s take a look at how the housing market has evolved over the last five years.
A few years ago, mortgage rates hit record lows, prompting a surge of buyers eager to lock in those rates. The result? Homes were flying off the market at lightning speed. With so many buyers competing for limited inventory, bidding wars became the norm, and home prices skyrocketed. While those buyers benefited from historically low rates, they faced intense competition and escalating prices.
Fast forward to today. Mortgage rates and home prices are higher, making buying a home more expensive. However, there’s a silver lining: the number of homes for sale is at its highest point in years. With more options available, buyers are less likely to encounter cutthroat bidding wars. As always, there are pros and cons to weigh in any market.
Focus on Your Goals, Not the Market
If you have a compelling reason to move and can afford to do so, the best approach is to capitalize on the trends working in your favor and work with a professional to navigate the rest. As Bankrate explains:
“The complexities of the current conditions mean that, now more than ever, it’s smart to lean on the guidance of an experienced local real estate agent. If you want to enter the housing market in 2025, whether as a buyer or a seller, let a pro lead the way for you.”
While the current market might feel challenging, achieving your goals is absolutely possible with the right team by your side. A trusted real estate agent and lender can provide valuable insights and creative solutions to help you succeed.
How a Real Estate Pro and Lender Can Help
Your real estate agent can guide you toward practical strategies, such as:
Exploring different housing types, like condos or townhomes.
Considering homes that may need a little work.
Expanding your search area to include neighborhoods you may not have considered before.
Meanwhile, your lender can walk you through various loan options and down payment assistance programs to help you understand your financial options. As Yahoo Finance advises:
“Buying a house at a time when both mortgage rates and home prices are favorable is a challenge. You probably shouldn’t try to time the housing market . . . Buy when it makes sense for you personally.”
Bottom Line
There’s no such thing as the perfect time to move — every market has its pros and cons. The key is to understand how to leverage the factors that benefit you. If you’re ready to move and can afford to make it happen, let’s connect. Together, we can ensure you have the guidance and tools to make your move a success.