Should You Follow the Crowd—or Make Your Move?

It’s human nature to proceed with caution when you perceive risk—especially when others are doing the same. And in today’s real estate market, caution seems to be the name of the game. Many are hitting pause, holding off on buying or selling because they’re unsure of what’s ahead.

But here’s the thing: the market isn’t in crisis. What we’re seeing is a shift—a return to a more balanced environment after a period of extreme conditions.

Before you decide to sit on the sidelines, ask yourself: Will following the crowd help you reach your goals—or could being the exception give you a better outcome?

Let’s Look at the Reality:

• Home prices are high, yes—but many sellers are motivated. That means there’s room to negotiate on price, closing costs, or even a rate buydown that can reduce your monthly payment.

• Interest rates are higher than they were in 2020 or 2021, but that was an anomaly. Historically, today’s rates are still below the 50-year average. Many successful buyers and investors purchased homes when rates were higher than they are now—and they built equity and wealth all the same.
  See historical rate data here.

• There’s no substitute for having a place to call your own. Whether it’s a condo, a single-family home, or a multi-unit property, owning your home puts you in control of your living situation—and your financial future.

Owning vs. Renting: What’s Really at Stake?

When you own your home, you're not just making a monthly payment—you’re making progress. You’ll have:

• The opportunity to build equity with each payment

• The freedom to personalize and improve your space without needing permission

• More stability in housing costs and living arrangements

• Potential tax advantages, like deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes (speak with your tax advisor for more info)

• A path to long-term wealth: Homeowners have a net worth nearly 40x greater than renters on average

Source: Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances

The Bottom Line:

There’s no such thing as a “perfect” time to buy a home. But waiting for the market to feel safe or “normal” again could mean missing out on opportunities that are available right now.

Whether you’re ready to buy your first home, move up to something bigger, or make a strategic investment, talking through your options is a smart first step. The numbers, the market, and your goals all matter—and Greenway Mortgage is here to help you make sense of them.

Reach out today and let's chat about what’s possible. You might be surprised at what’s within reach. 888-616-9885