It depends more on your personal situation than what the market is doing.
Trying to time the market is tough. What matters more are your needs and
time horizon. Factors like a growing family, job situation, and how long
you plan to live in the home can outweigh short-term market conditions.
There is no perfect timing. Think long-term and do what’s best for you,
and let the market be.

That’s a common and fair question. Rates have a major impact on affordability.
Waiting for rates to drop sounds logical, but it’s not always the best strategy.
Lower rates often bring more buyers back into the market, increasing competition
and pushing prices higher. Many buyers choose to buy when competition is lower
and refinance later if rates improve. Market experts have predicted rate drops
for years with limited success, so it’s usually better to buy when you’re
personally ready rather than trying to time rate cuts.

The California Association of Realtors forecasts home prices to increase
approximately 3.6% in 2026. The Conejo Valley often outperforms the broader
market due to strong demand and limited housing supply. While prices can
fluctuate, significant drops are uncommon. For most buyers, the bigger risk
is waiting too long and missing the right home rather than trying to time
the exact bottom.

Beyond your down payment, buyers should plan for inspections, non-recurring
closing costs, and recurring costs. Non-recurring closing costs typically
run about 1–3% of the purchase price. Recurring closing costs usually add
another 1–1.5% for prepaid expenses such as interest, property taxes, and
homeowners insurance. I break down all of the expenses on my Cost to Buy page.

Renting offers flexibility, lower upfront costs, and no maintenance
responsibilities, but it doesn’t build equity. If you’re financially and
mentally prepared to buy, homeownership has historically been the stronger
long-term choice. That said, stretching yourself too thin can be risky,
especially when unexpected expenses come up.

Buying too early without fully understanding the market or trying to time it.
Even experienced buyers need time to learn the area, neighborhoods, and
current conditions. That learning phase can take anywhere from a few weeks
to a few months. Once you’re educated, waiting for perfect timing in rates
or prices is usually unrealistic. It’s best to buy when you’re informed and
find a home you truly love.

That’s where a personalized conversation helps. The right decision depends
on your goals, budget, timeline, and comfort level. A quick strategy
discussion can clarify whether buying now, waiting, or adjusting expectations
is the smartest move for you.