Are you wondering whether now is the right time to buy a home or if you should wait? It's a question that’s top of mind for many these days. While your decision will depend on your unique situation, here’s something worth considering.

If you can afford to buy a home at today’s rates and prices, it might be more beneficial to get in the market now and let time work to your advantage, rather than trying to predict the perfect moment to buy.

The Uncertainty of Timing the Market Trying to time the market is tricky because things rarely go as planned. For example, earlier this year, many experts believed mortgage rates would start to decrease. However, changes in the economy have pushed those expectations back, leaving those who waited on the sidelines facing higher rates. U.S. News highlights this reality:

“Buyers who held off, expecting rates to drop, have found themselves priced out... Rates have remained high longer than anticipated, making monthly payments steeper. In essence, waiting didn’t lead to better affordability.”

This scenario shows why waiting for the “right” time can be a gamble—if you’re ready to buy now, acting sooner might be the smarter choice.

The Upside of Rising Home Prices By postponing your purchase, you might miss out on the potential equity gains you could start building today. According to Fannie Mae’s Home Price Expectations Survey, which collects insights from over 100 economists and market experts, home prices are expected to keep rising through at least 2028.