Should You Buy a Home Now or Wait? Here’s What to Consider on Cape Cod

You’ve probably heard the phrase:
“The best time to buy a home was yesterday. The next best time is today.”

That’s more than just a catchy saying — it reflects the reality of long-term real estate investment. If you’re waiting for home prices to drop or for the perfect mortgage rate to hit, here’s what you need to know: waiting could cost you more than you think — especially here in Cape Cod’s high-demand housing market.

Let’s break down the facts.

Home Prices Are Still Rising — Just More Steadily

According to the Home Price Expectations Survey by Fannie Mae, over 100 housing market experts agree: home prices will continue to climb through at least 2029.

And while the frenzied spikes of the pandemic-era market are behind us, experts now predict a sustainable growth rate of 3–4% per year — a healthy pace that keeps your investment strong over time.

Why That Matters for You:

Prices Are Projected to Rise

Next year’s prices will likely be higher. Delaying your purchase could mean paying more for the same home.

Lower Rates May Not Offset Rising Costs

Even if mortgage rates dip slightly, projected price growth could cancel out those savings.

Equity Starts Building the Day You Buy

Buying now means building equity sooner, giving you a head start on long-term financial growth.

A Real-World Example

Let’s say you’re eyeing a home priced at $400,000 in today’s market.

With modest growth, that same home could be worth $480,000 by 2030. That’s $80,000 in equity you’d miss out on if you stay on the sidelines.

Now imagine that happening in a Cape Cod neighborhood where demand stays high year-round thanks to our beaches, seasonal rentals, and lifestyle appeal. Your potential upside could be even greater.

What Buyers Often Miss

Here’s the truth: waiting for the “perfect” conditions almost never works out.

Instead of focusing on the market you wish for, focus on what’s real and achievable right now. If you can:

Afford a smaller or more modest home to get started
Consider new locations or upcoming neighborhoods
Take advantage of first-time buyer programs or down payment assistance

Then you can get in the market now and let time do the work.

Why It Matters More on Cape Cod

Cape Cod isn’t your average market. Inventory is limited, demand is consistent, and waterfront and walkable properties always retain value. The longer you wait, the more competitive this market becomes.

In high-demand areas like Hyannis, Yarmouth, and Orleans, buying early — even if it’s a starter home — can open the door to future opportunities you wouldn’t have had otherwise.

Bottom Line

Time in the market beats timing the market — especially on Cape Cod.

If you’re debating whether to wait or buy, the most important step is to understand your options and make a plan that fits your goals, your timeline, and your finances.

Let’s explore what’s possible together — and get you one step closer to homeownership.