Are you thinking about buying a home but hesitating because of interest rates? You’re not alone—many buyers are sitting on the sidelines, waiting for rates to drop. But here’s the thing: waiting could cost you more than you think. Right now, the housing market is ripe with opportunities, and as a certified Global Marketing Agent and Hawaii Realtor, I’m here to help you seize them. With high inventory, homes sitting longer on the market, and low buyer competition, now is the time to act. Plus, smart strategies like seller concessions for a 3-1 buydown can ease your worries about rates. Let’s dive into why you should jump back into the market today and secure your dream home!

Interest Rates: Not as High as You Think

Today’s interest rates might feel high compared to the ultra-low rates of a few years ago, but let’s put things in perspective. As of September 2025, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is around 6.5%. Historically, though, rates have averaged about 7.71% since the 1970s, with peaks as high as 18.63% in the early 1980s. That means current rates are actually below the long-term norm. Waiting for them to drop further might seem tempting, but it comes with a catch.

The Waiting Game: Don’t Get Caught in the Rush

If you’re holding off for rates to fall below 6%, so are countless other buyers. When rates do drop—potentially within the next year or two—a flood of buyers will reenter the market. That means bidding wars, multiple offers, and homes selling above asking price, just like the frenzy we saw during the pandemic. Why put yourself in that stressful situation when you can act now and avoid the competition?

Today’s Market: A Buyer’s Advantage

Right now, the housing market is in your favor. Inventory is at its highest in years, with a 4.7-month supply of existing homes—the most since 2016—and new homes at an even higher 9.8-month supply. Homes are staying on the market longer, giving you more time to explore options and negotiate. With fewer buyers competing, sellers are more motivated to make deals, meaning you can secure your dream home at a fair price without the pressure of a bidding war. This is a rare window of opportunity—don’t let it pass!

Tackling High Rates with Smart Strategies

Worried about interest rates? There’s a solution: negotiate seller concessions to cover buydown points. A 3-1 buydown, for instance, lowers your interest rate for the first three years (3% off in year one, 2% in year two, 1% in year three), making your monthly payments more affordable as you settle into your new home. Then, if rates drop in a year or two, you can refinance to lock in a lower rate. This strategy lets you buy now, take advantage of today’s market, and adjust later if needed. It’s a practical way to start your homeownership journey without breaking the bank.

Act Now and Secure Your Dream Home

The stars are aligned for buyers right now: high inventory, less competition, and motivated sellers create the perfect conditions to find your ideal home. Don’t wait for lower rates and risk getting caught in a crowded, competitive market. As your trusted realtor with ZT Hawaii, I’m here to guide you through every step—from finding properties that match your vision to negotiating concessions and closing the deal. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy starter home or a luxurious retreat, now is the time to make it happen. Contact me today, and let’s turn your homeownership dreams into reality!