Why Waiting to Buy a Home Could Cost You More Than You Think

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines watching the housing market from afar (hoping for interest rates or prices to drop) consider this your wake-up call.

Because here’s the truth: May is historically one of the best months to sell, which means inventory peaks, competition heats up, and buyers who are prepared have the best shot at locking in a home before prices continue to climb even higher.

And yes, prices will continue to climb. That’s not a scare tactic, it’s simply economics. With a persistent shortage of inventory and steady buyer demand, home appreciation isn’t pausing anytime soon. That dream home you're eyeing today? It will most likely cost more next year...and the year after that, and the year after that.

Now let’s talk about what that means for you:

If You Qualify to Buy This Year, Don’t Wait

Just because you qualify today doesn't mean you will qualify in 6 or 12 months. Rising home prices paired with flat or rising interest rates will strain your buying power. And with rates unlikely to drop dramatically anytime soon, many buyers who wait will be priced out altogether.

Let’s Get Real About Wealth

If you don’t currently own a home, you’re already behind when it comes to building generational wealth. Real estate continues to be one of the most powerful tools for financial growth, but only for those who act.

The longer you wait, the more equity you could have built slips through your fingers.

Think You Can’t Afford to Buy? Think Again.

You might be surprised by how many low down payment options are available right now:

• 0% down loan programs from Guild Mortgage

• Buyer grants up to $4,000 from Guild Mortgage

• FHA and conventional loans with as little as 3–5% down

• Use your 401(k) to help cover your down payment 

There are more options than ever before to help buyers step into homeownership without depleting their savings.

The Bottom Line

There is an opportunity right now, but it’s slipping further out of reach for those who continue to wait. This market rewards preparation, clarity, and decisive action. If you want to stop throwing away rent and start investing in your future, the time to act is now.

Not sure where to begin? Let’s walk through your options together and create a plan that works for you.

Because the best time to start building wealth through real estate? Yesterday. The second-best time? Today.

Ready to read more?