Why Long-Term Buyers Have an Edge in Today’s Market
With home prices fluctuating and headlines warning of economic uncertainty, it’s no surprise that many would-be buyers are taking a wait-and-see approach. However, for buyers who are thinking beyond the next couple of years, the current market could be full of opportunity, not risk.
If you plan to stay in your next home for five years or more, now may be a good time to move.
Market Shifts Are a Recalibration—Not a Crash
Recent reports show that while home prices have declined in a few metro areas like San Antonio and Oakland, most of the country is still experiencing moderate appreciation. The big spikes we saw during the pandemic have cooled, but we're not seeing the kind of freefall that marked the 2008 housing crisis.
In fact, national price data from the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Index shows a 3.9% year-over-year increase. That’s far from the 18% drop we saw in 2008. What we’re seeing now is a more balanced market, not a bursting bubble.
Long-Term Homeownership Builds Wealth
Buying a home has always been one of the most consistent ways to grow wealth over time. According to data from late 2024, the average homeowner has a net worth of over $400,000, compared to just $10,000 for renters.
Even in markets where prices are adjusting, homeownership acts as a hedge against inflation, builds equity, and protects you from rising rent costs. As of early 2025, national rents have increased by 3.5% year-over-year—while homeowners with fixed-rate mortgages enjoy steady monthly payments.
Better Prices. More Negotiating Power.
As competition eases in some areas, more sellers are offering incentives like closing cost credits or rate buy-downs. In fact, 44% of listings nationwide are now including seller concessions. For buyers, this opens up a chance to negotiate on price, terms, or both.
Interest rates are also showing signs of stabilizing, allowing buyers to better assess what they can afford—without the roller coaster we've seen in the past couple of years.
Smart Strategies for Today’s Buyer
If you're in the market to buy and plan to stay put for a while, here’s how to approach today’s conditions:
- Think Long Term: Buyers who stay in their homes for 5–7 years are more likely to ride out short-term fluctuations and benefit from future equity growth.
- Know Your Budget: Focus on total monthly payments and cash needed to close. Buy within your means to avoid becoming “house poor.”
- Negotiate Smart: In a softer market, buyers have leverage. Look for seller concessions and don’t hesitate to ask for rate buy-downs or help with closing costs.
- Watch the Big Picture: The market isn't crashing—it’s adjusting. Buying now may mean getting in before appreciation picks back up.
Ready to Talk About Your Long-Term Real Estate Goals?
At Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc., we help buyers find lasting value in Upstate South Carolina—whether you're looking near the lakes, in the mountains, or close to town. If you're thinking about making a move and want a professional who knows how to navigate today’s market, we're here to help.
📞 Call Gwen at 864-710-4518
📧 Email: gwen@gfowler.com
Your next chapter starts here. Let’s make it happen.
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