Why now is a good time to buy a home.
Despite high interest rates, now is actually a smart time to buy—if you play it right.
Compared to the overheated, ultra-competitive market of 2020–2021, today’s landscape offers buyers more leverage, more options, and more ways to make the numbers work.
We recently spoke with Orlando Diaz, Sr. Loan Advisor at Guarantee Mortgage, who shared why serious buyers should consider entering the market now—and how strategic financing tools can help soften the impact of current rates.
What Makes Today’s Market More Buyer-Friendly?
Unlike the frenzy of recent years—when buyers were forced to waive contingencies, bid far over asking, and compete with a dozen other offers—today’s environment favors patience and negotiation. Here’s why:
Sellers are more flexible and open to negotiation on price.
Concessions are back. It’s common to see sellers offer credits for closing costs, rate buydowns, or repairs.
Less competition means fewer bidding wars—and better deals.
These conditions create a rare opportunity: buy with less stress and more financial wiggle room.
Spotlight: The 2-1 Temporary Buydown
One standout strategy is the 2-1 buydown loan—a smart workaround for today’s higher rates.
Here’s how it works:
You qualify for the mortgage at the full market rate (e.g., 7%).
But your payment is temporarily discounted:
Year 1: Payments based on 5%
Year 2: Payments based on 6%
Year 3 onward: Locked in at 7%
This structure offers short-term relief while providing time to refinance if/when rates drop. Best of all, the seller pays for the buydown—it must be negotiated and written into the contract.
💡 This strategy only applies to conforming loans, not jumbo loans. For larger properties, seller credits—up to 6% of the purchase price—can help cover closing costs instead.
When used strategically, buydowns and seller credits are powerful tools to help buyers stretch their budget and stay competitive without overextending.
Final Word
The best time to buy is when the market gives you options—and right now, it does.
If you’re ready to make a move, let’s talk about how we can make today’s conditions work in your favor. Let’s explore your options, discuss financing strategies like the 2-1 buydown, and find you the right home—on the right terms.
