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Mortgage MinutePublished December 4, 2025
Why Waiting for a Crash Could Cost You More
Why Waiting for a Crash Could Cost You More
For more than a third of Americans, the plan is simple: wait for a housing crash, then jump in.
But industry economists - including the experts cited in a recent Investopedia report - say that scenario is unlikely. And waiting could quietly add thousands to your long-term cost.
Here’s what the data is showing across Northern California:
Prices Are Expected to Climb, Not Fall
Realtor.com is projecting a 3.7% increase in home values in 2026, with historic appreciation averaging around 4% annually. Even in slower markets across Napa County, Sonoma County, Solano County, Marin County, Contra Costa County, and San Francisco, prices tend to stabilize - not drop dramatically.
As one expert put it, “I’ve seen too many people lose money by sitting on their hands waiting for a crash that never comes.”
You Can Refinance a Rate - But Not the Price
Rates fluctuate. Prices rarely rewind.
If the home you want appreciates by even 3–4% next year, the cost of waiting may outweigh any benefit of a slightly lower rate down the road.
For Many Buyers, Buying Now Is the Smarter Move
If you’re financially ready, stepping in now can secure today’s price and give you the flexibility to refinance later if rates improve.
Want to See the Real Numbers?
We can run a quick comparison showing:
- Cost of buying today
- Cost of waiting 6 - 12 months
- Projected appreciation in your city
- Monthly payment scenarios based on today’s rates
- Sample refinance savings
Just email us and we’ll prepare the full breakdown.
Happy House Hunting!
Source: Investopedia — Why Waiting for the Housing Crash Is Costing You Money
https://www.investopedia.com/why-waiting-for-the-housing-crash-is-costing-you-money-11781312
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