At some point, you’ve probably heard the saying: “Yesterday was the best time to buy a home, but the next best time is today.”

Homeownership is about the long game, and home prices typically rise over time. So, while you may be holding out for prices to fall or rates to improve, you should know that trying to time the market rarely works.

Here’s what most buyers don’t always think about: the longer you wait, the more it could cost you. And you deserve to understand why.

Forecasts Say Prices Will Keep Climbing

Over 100 housing market experts weigh in for the Home Price Expectations Survey from Fannie Mae each quarter, and they consistently agree on one thing: nationally, home prices are expected to rise through at least 2029.

Yes, the sharp price increases are behind us, but experts project a steady, healthy, and sustainable increase of 3-4% per year. While this will vary by local market from year to year, the good news is that this is a much more normal pace — a welcome sign for the housing market and hopeful buyers (see graph).

And even in markets experiencing more modest price growth or slight short-term declines, the long game of homeownership wins over time.

So, here’s what to keep in mind:

Next year’s home prices will be higher than this year’s. The longer you wait, the more the purchase price will go up.
Waiting for the perfect mortgage rate or a price drop may backfire. Even if rates dip slightly, projected home price growth could make waiting more expensive.
Buying now means building equity sooner. When you play the long game of homeownership, your equity rewards you over time.

What You’ll Miss Out On

Let’s put real numbers into this equation because they add up quickly. Based on those expert projections, buying a typical $400,000 home in 2025 could gain nearly $80,000 in value by 2030 (see our latest graph).

That’s a serious boost to your future wealth, and that’s why your friends and family who already bought a home are so glad they did. Time in the market matters.

So, the question isn’t: should I wait? It’s really: Can I afford to buy it now? If you can stretch a little or are willing to purchase something a bit smaller to get your foot in the door, this is why it’ll be worth it.

Yes, today’s housing market has challenges. Still, there are ways to make it work, like exploring different neighborhoods, asking your lender about alternative financing, or tapping into down payment assistance programs.

The key is to make a move when it makes sense for you, rather than waiting for a perfect scenario that may never arrive.

Bottom Line

Time in the Market Beats Timing the Market. (Here is to learn more.)

If you’re debating whether to buy now or wait, remember this: real estate rewards those who get in the market, not those who try to time it perfectly.

Want to see what’s happening with prices in our local area? Whether you’re ready to buy now or just exploring your options, having a plan can set you up for long-term success.