Time in the Market Beats Timing the Market

Trying to decide whether it makes more sense to buy a home now or wait? There’s a lot to consider, from what’s happening in the market to your changing needs. But generally speaking, trying to time the market isn’t a great strategy—there are too many unpredictable factors at play to make it possible.

That’s why real estate experts often say, time in the market is better than timing the market.

As a trusted local lender and owner of Lend Mortgage Solutions, a local mortgage brokerage, I work with homebuyers every day who are wondering if now is the right time to buy. Here’s why making your move sooner rather than later could be a smart financial decision.

If you’re in a position to buy and can make the numbers work, purchasing a home now could be a powerful financial move. Bankrate explains why:

“No matter which way the real estate market is leaning, though, buying now means you can start building equity immediately.”

And that’s key—building equity is one of the biggest benefits of homeownership. Instead of paying rent and building your landlord’s wealth, you’ll be investing in your own future.

Here’s some data to break this down so you can really see the benefit of buying now versus later – if you’re able to.

Each quarter, Fannie Mae releases the Home Price Expectations Survey. (HPES), which gathers insights from over 100 economists, real estate experts, and market strategists. Their latest projections show that home prices will continue to rise through at least 2029—though at a more normal, steady pace compared to the last few years.

(see the graph below):

What does that mean for you?

Let’s break it down with a real-world example. If you purchase a $400,000 home in early 2025, here’s how much you could gain in home equity over the next five years based on expert forecasts:

Potential Home Equity Growth by 2030:

$83,000+ in household wealth

That’s a significant amount of money you could be earning just by owning a home. If you wait, you not only risk paying a higher price later, but you also lose out on potential appreciation.

If you keep renting, you’re missing out on this equity gain. Unlike rent payments, which go straight to your landlord, mortgage payments help build your own wealth over time.

And while today’s market presents challenges, there are creative ways to make homeownership possible, including:

Looking at more affordable areas

Considering condos or townhomes

Exploring down payment assistance programs

At Lend Mortgage Solutions, we’re a local mortgage brokerage that specializes in helping buyers find the right financing options to make homeownership happen—even in a competitive market.

Sure, you could wait. But if you’re waiting solely to time the market, you could be missing out on major equity gains. While no one can predict exactly where mortgage rates or home prices will be in the future, history tells us that real estate is a long-term investment that appreciates over time.

If you’re torn between buying now or waiting, remember:

It’s time in the market—not timing the market—that truly matters.

Home values are expected to rise, which means the longer you wait, the more expensive homes may become.

Buying now allows you to start building equity and creating long-term financial stability.

Bottom Line

As your local lending expert, I understand that every buyer’s situation is unique. That’s why I’m here to help you explore all your options—whether that means buying now, adjusting your price range, or finding creative ways to make homeownership affordable.

Let’s talk about your goals and get you pre-approved today!

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Rya Jacobsma – Your Trusted Local Lender
Lend Mortgage Solutions – Your Local Mortgage Brokerage
209-342-7385
Rya@LendMortgageSolutions.com

www.LendMortgageSolutions.com
NMLS 2299837 | DRE 02168816

Let’s make your homeownership dreams a reality in 2025!

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