Timing the Market vs. Time In the Market: When Should You Buy a Home?
There’s a persistent fantasy out there that if you wait long enough, the market will hit a magical low point where home prices drop, interest rates tank, and unicorns prance across your front lawn. It’s called timing the market, and it sounds great in theory.
In reality? It's about as predictable as your neighbor's Wi-Fi name changing weekly.
Let’s break down the myth of perfect timing and talk about when buying a home actually makes sense—for you.
The Myth: Timing the Market
Everyone wants a deal. But trying to buy at the "perfect moment" is like trying to buy stocks based on your horoscope. Interest rates go up. Prices go down. Then the opposite happens. Even the pros get it wrong.
By the time everyone agrees it’s a good time to buy, prices have already adjusted. So if your plan is to wait for the perfect storm of low rates and low prices, you might also want to invest in a time machine.
The Truth: Time In the Market Matters More
What matters more than timing the market? Time in the market. The longer you own a home, the more likely you are to build equity, ride out market fluctuations, and come out ahead.
If you buy a home you can afford, stay there a while, and avoid panic-selling during downturns, you're doing it right.
So When Should You Buy?
Spoiler: When your life and finances say you're ready—not when your cousin Steve says it's a hot market.
Ask yourself:
Do you plan to stay put for at least 3-5 years?
Is your income stable?
Do you have savings for a down payment and an emergency fund?
Can you afford the monthly payment and still live your life?
If you answered yes to most of the above, you're probably in a good place to buy. If not, it's okay to wait. Just don’t waste time chasing the market like it owes you something.
The Better Strategy
Forget perfect timing. Focus on smart timing. That means:
Getting pre-approved so you know what you can actually afford
Watching the market without obsessing over it
Working with someone (hi) who can help you move when it makes sense
Final Thought
Waiting for the market to hit the bottom is a gamble. But making a move that fits your life? That’s strategy.
Need help figuring out if now is the right time for you? Let’s talk.