You’ve probably heard that now isn’t the time to buy. Rates feel high, the headlines are noisy and waiting seems safer.
But in July, the average home price reached a record $435,000. And values have risen every year for the last five. As Dana Novotny, corporate vice president of sales at Epcon Communities, explained, “While buyers wait for interest rates to fall, home prices keep going up.” Waiting hasn’t saved buyers money. It’s cost them the chance to lock in pricing and begin living the lifestyle they want.
At Winfrey Estates—nestled in Tomball with quick access to The Woodlands, and highway 249, and everyday conveniences—you’re in a highly desirable location where homes don’t stay on the market long. If you want more time with family, the freedom to travel, or simply the ease of low-maintenance landscaping, the time to buy is now.
Why Waiting to Buy a House Costs More in the Long Run
“Now is still a good time to buy, because the chances are, today the home is going to cost less than it will tomorrow,” said Novotny.
Data from the National Association of Realtors supports her sentiments. NPR reports the median home price has climbed nearly 50% over the last five years. So, a buyer holding off today may pay $15,000 to $20,000 more for the same home next year.
“There's every indication that home prices are going to continue to climb,” said Novotny. “Maybe not as aggressively as they did in 2020 and 2021, but we're still seeing anywhere from 1% to 5% appreciation.”
Her advice is simple: buyers who act now can build equity more quickly and for a longer period than those who wait.
Stop imagining living well and actually live well.
Building Equity Starts the Day You Move In
Home equity is simply the value of your home minus what you still owe on your mortgage. As you pay down principal and your home appreciates, the equity grows, giving you deeper ownership over time.
That growing equity gives you options. You might tap into it to help fund a child’s college education, cover a major medical expense or enjoy a trip abroad. However, equity is a long game. “If people buy now, they get to build equity over a longer period of time,” said Novotny. “The longer they wait, the less time they have to build equity and to capitalize on the market.”
Which is Smarter? A New Home or a Resale
Buying an existing home might seem like a way to save, but looks can be deceiving. “Even though a new home may cost more, the cost of ownership on an existing home is significantly higher,” said Novotny. Here’s why.
- Resales often need costly improvements to match modern standards.
- A kitchen remodel alone can cost $90,000, quickly erasing any perceived savings. Even beautifully redone homes may not reflect your taste. “There's always going to be something that you have to redo, right?” said Novotny.
- A new home saves you energy. “When you compare an Epcon home to a same-size house that's 25 years old, most of our homeowners experience upwards of 20% in their energy savings,” she said.
- Maintenance and repairs on dated systems add costs that are usually covered by new home warranties.
Every year you wait is one less year to live well. Why not start today? Contact Jalycia Golden today!
Rates Aren’t Forever: Refinance Without Regret
Many home buyers forget that the cost of the home is permanent, but the interest rates are temporary. “Marry the house, date the rate,” said Novotny. In other words, buy the home you love now and refinance it later if the rates drop.
Waiting for rates to drop comes with risks:
- Home prices continue to climb.
- You miss out on a great community because the homes sell fast.
- The perfect homesite–whether for sunlight, size, privacy or proximity to amenities–may be sold.
- Most importantly, you lose time enjoying the lifestyle you want now.
Winfrey Estates: Why Lifestyle Still Matters Most
Delaying your move means delaying the chance to live well every day. Financial benefits may be compelling, but lifestyle is priceless. And delaying means fewer years enjoying low-maintenance landscaping and a lock-and-leave lifestyle.
Why wait to be closer to family, enjoy neighborhood events, or travel without worry? At Winfrey Estates, you can live in a thoughtfully planned community where comfort, connection, and convenience come naturally. Our single-level living, abundant natural light, and private garden courtyards make the outdoors an effortless part of your everyday life. Why not start enjoying it now?
If you’re ready to stop waiting, connect with Jalycia Golden at 346.762.1864 today and discover why buying now is still a good idea.