09/18/2026
🏡 WAITING FOR RATES TO DROP COULD COST YOU MORE THAN YOU THINK.
One of the biggest things I hear from buyers is:
“I’m going to wait until mortgage rates come down.”
And I completely understand that! But here’s something important to consider…
You can refinance a mortgage. You can’t refinance the price you paid for your home.
If rates eventually fall, more buyers may jump back into the market. When more buyers are competing for a limited number of homes, we could see more multiple-offer situations and upward pressure on home prices.
We’re already seeing how limited inventory can support prices. In the second quarter of 2026, home prices increased in 80% of U.S. metro areas, with the national median existing single-family home price up 1.5% from a year earlier. (National Association of REALTORS®)
And in August 2026, the U.S. had about 4.9 months of existing-home supply, while the median existing-home price was still up 1.6% year over year. (National Association of REALTORS®)
So what if you find the right home now?
✅ Buy when the home and price make sense for you
✅ Build equity as you own the home
✅ Potentially benefit from future appreciation
✅ And if mortgage rates fall enough to make it worthwhile, explore refinancing later
Refinancing can potentially lower your monthly payment and/or total interest, although it involves a new loan, lender approval, and closing costs. (Fannie Mae)
The goal isn’t to perfectly time the market.
The goal is to make a smart decision based on your finances, your plans, and the home that works for you.
And remember: there’s no guarantee rates will fall or that home prices will rise. Every market and every buyer’s situation is different.
If you’re waiting for rates to come down, let’s talk about what buying now vs. waiting could look like for your situation. Sometimes the numbers may surprise you. 🏡
📱 Stephanie Andersen, Realtor®
Brokers 12 Real Estate
850.797.2096
[email protected]
www.brokers12.com/stephanie_andersen