Should You Wait or Buy a House in 2025?

Why Today’s Market Might Offer More Than You Think

If you’re thinking about buying a home, you’ve likely heard this question over and over:
“Should I wait until interest rates drop—or should I buy now?”

It’s a valid concern, especially in today’s real estate landscape. But the answer isn't as simple as waiting for rates to dip. In fact, holding off might cost you more in the long run—especially here in the Tri-Cities housing market.

At Windermere Group One, our goal is to help you make informed, confident decisions about homeownership. Below, we’ll walk through the key factors you should consider before deciding to wait or buy in 2025, based on insights from four of our experienced local Realtors.

1. The True Cost of Waiting: It’s Not Just About Interest Rates

While mortgage rates are an important part of the homebuying equation, they aren’t everything. Buyers often overlook the impact of home appreciation, competition, and lost equity when they delay their purchase.

Let’s say rates drop by 1% next year—but home prices also go up by 5–7%. That means:

• You’re paying more for the same house

• You’ve missed a year of equity growth

• You might face more buyer competition, leading to bidding wars

Bottom line: Waiting might not actually save you money; in fact, it could cost you money.

2. What the Market Looks Like in Tri-Cities, WA

Unlike national housing trends, the Tri-Cities market (Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco) has its own dynamics. We're still seeing steady buyer activity and tight inventory in many price ranges. That means opportunities exist—especially for buyers who are ready now.

Even if interest rates stay higher than we’d like, today’s prices, seller incentives, and favorable terms (like rate buydowns or closing cost assistance) can give current buyers more leverage than they may have a year from now.

3. Buying a Home Is a Long-Term Wealth Strategy

Homeownership isn't just about timing the perfect market. It's about:

• Building long-term equity

• Locking in a monthly payment instead of renting

• Creating stability and wealth for your future

If the numbers work for you now—and you plan to stay in the home for at least 5 years—buying today can be a smart financial move, even if rates adjust later. (And remember: you can always refinance if rates drop.)

4. There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Answer

Every buyer’s situation is different. That’s why we encourage a personalized approach—not just relying on headlines or assumptions.

Ask yourself:

• What’s my current rent vs. potential mortgage?

• How long do I plan to stay in the home?

• Do I have the cash and credit to buy now?

• Am I emotionally and financially ready?

Sometimes the answer is “wait.” Sometimes it’s “go.” But informed timing is better than perfect timing.

🎥 Want to Hear Directly from Our Realtors?

We recently sat down with four Windermere Group One Realtors to talk about exactly this topic:
Should buyers wait or buy now in 2025? They shared data, local insight, and real talk about what it actually looks like in today’s market.

👉 Watch the full video here:

Ready to Explore What’s Right for You?

Whether you’re buying your first home or thinking about a move, we’re here to help you see the big picture—and understand how today’s market can support your goals.

Download Our Free Buyer’s Guide

Packed with local tips, financial advice, and step-by-step guidance.
👉 Windermere Buyer's Guide

🗓 Book a Free Buyer Consultation

Let’s run the numbers together and talk about your unique situation.
👉 Book Here

Final Thoughts

The best time to buy a home isn’t just about rates or trends—it’s about your readiness, your goals, and having the right people by your side.

At Windermere Group One, we’re committed to helping you unlock the power of ownership and move with confidence—not just buy a house.

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