Waiting on Rates? Here’s the Straight Talk for San Diego Buyers & Sellers

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for mortgage rates to come down, you’re not wrong—and you’re definitely not alone. In San Diego, this pause has been thoughtful, cautious, and frankly very human. Big decisions deserve confidence. That said, timing matters, and so does understanding the trade-offs.

The Real Advantages of Waiting

1. Lower monthly payments (potentially). If rates dip meaningfully, your buying power improves and cash flow feels easier—especially important in a high-cost market like San Diego.

2. Psychological comfort. Waiting can feel safer. Fewer headlines screaming “bad time to buy” equals less stress.

3. More time to prepare. Buyers can strengthen credit or savings; sellers can improve condition, paperwork, or HOA readiness.

All valid. All reasonable. The Likely Disadvantages of Waiting for "the Herd"

The Likely Disadvantages of Waiting for "the Herd"

1. Competition comes roaring back. When rates drop, buyers flood in. Multiple offers, bidding wars, waived contingencies—hello 2021 vibes.

2. Prices tend to rise before rates fall much. In San Diego, demand pressure often pushes prices up faster than rates come down, eroding the very savings people waited for.

3. Sellers lose leverage—or buyers lose choice. Sellers waiting may miss today’s serious, motivated buyers. Buyers waiting often lose inventory options and negotiating power.

The Bottom Line

Smart moves aren’t about predicting the perfect rate—they’re about positioning before the crowd. Acting while others hesitate can mean better terms, better choices, and calmer decisions.

No herd. No panic. Just strategy.

Feel free to reach out to me to discuss your personal situation.

Tamara