The True Cost of Waiting To Buy or Sell a Home in Today’s Market

by George Khoury

If you're a buyer or seller sitting on the sidelines, hoping for the "perfect" moment—this blog is for you.

With mortgage rates bouncing between headlines and home prices still rising in many areas, it’s no surprise that people are asking:

"Should I wait for lower interest rates?"
"Will home prices drop if I wait a few more months?"

At GK Realty Group, we hear these questions every day—and the truth is, waiting might cost you more than you think.

Let’s break it down.

man-holding-interest-rates-at-4-percent

The Illusion of “Waiting for Better Rates”

After a weaker-than-expected jobs report this summer, mortgage rates dipped slightly—sparking hope that the long-awaited drop in rates is finally here.

But here’s the truth:

Mortgage rates are not expected to fall dramatically any time soon.

According to expert forecasts (including Fannie Mae), mortgage rates are likely to hover in the mid-to-low 6% range through 2026. That means:

No 4% or even 5% rates around the corner
Minor dips? Possible. But not enough to radically change affordability
And when we do hit 6%? A surge of buyers is expected to flood the market

The Tradeoff: Lower Rates vs. Higher Prices and Competition

Here’s what most buyers don’t realize:

when rates drop, demand spikes—and prices go up.

A recent report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) revealed:

If mortgage rates hit 6%, 5.5 million more households could afford a median-priced home
Over 550,000 new buyers would likely enter the market within 12 to 18 months

So, while a lower rate might look good on paper, you’ll likely face:

More bidding wars
Less inventory
Higher home prices
And less negotiating power

You could end up paying more overall, even with a slightly better rate.

For Buyers: Now May Be Your Best Shot

Right now, the market presents a rare window of opportunity:

Inventory is higher → You have more choices
Price growth has slowed → More realistic seller expectations
Fewer buyers in the market → More room to negotiate

Waiting could mean facing more competition, fewer options, and rising prices.

For Sellers: Don’t Wait for a “Hotter” Market

Right now, motivated buyers are still active
You may be able to stand out in a less crowded market
When the buyer surge returns, you’ll also face more seller competition

Real Estate Is Local. Talk to an Expert

At GK Realty Group, we don’t just follow the national trends—we analyze the local data that matters most to your specific market.

Your best move depends on:

Local inventory levels
Buyer demand in your area
Your personal financial goals

We’ll help you make a decision that feels right—and financially smart.

Bottom Line

There’s no perfect time—only the right strategy for your goals.

If you wait for the “ideal” rate, you might:

Face more competition
Pay more for the same house
Miss out on today's negotiation opportunities