At this time of year, we often hear people say that they are putting their searches for property on hold until the spring. While we understand the appeal of taking an item off the To Do list at this busy season, I want to point out the possible consequences.
Savvy buyers don't talk about the price of the property, they talk about the monthly payment. Current mortgage rates are so low that the cost of risking an increase in rates almost surely outstrips the risk that you might buy now and have prices decline slightly before they rise again. The low rates also trump any idea that you have to bargain for the last nickel. Take the deal, lock in the rate, and gloat later.
Many consumers are acutely aware of the aspects of this housing market that favor buyers. They therefore think that, regardless of what a property is listed for, they should offer 20% less. They seem to believe that sellers are desparate, and that they need to bottom fish in order to purchase now. Since only the well-priced properties in good condition are selling, it's not even really true, as I have pointed out before, that there are so many things to choose from that such a strategy can succeed.
Let me remind any such people that this market is not a zero-sum game. Both the sellers and the buyers can win. The sellers can sell and repurchase at the current lower prices, with the lower interest rates. The buyers can buy and also take advantage of these rates. Everyone can walk away better off. This is an unusual time in that respect. If you figure out what the monthly payment will be, you may discover that it makes far more sense to buy and move than to wait.
