If you’re wondering whether it makes more sense to buy a home now or wait, you’re not alone. The decision to buy is influenced by market conditions, financial readiness, and personal needs. However, trying to time the real estate market perfectly is nearly impossible. There are too many unpredictable factors at play.
This is why experts often emphasize that time in the market is more important than timing the market. Buying a home as soon as you’re ready and able to make the numbers work is usually the smarter move. Why? Because the sooner you buy, the sooner you start building equity.
Bankrate puts it simply:
“No matter which way the real estate market is leaning, though, buying now means you can start building equity immediately.”
Let’s break this down with some data. Each quarter, Fannie Mae releases the Home Price Expectations Survey (HPES), which compiles projections from over 100 economists and market experts. According to the latest survey, home prices are expected to continue rising through at least 2029, albeit at a slower and more stable pace compared to recent years.
For example, imagine you buy a home valued at $400,000 in January 2025. Using the HPES projections, your home could gain more than $83,000 in equity over the next five years. That’s a significant increase in household wealth you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
Kansas City Home Appreciation Rates
In the Kansas City metro area, home values have seen steady appreciation over the past decade. According to recent reports, the average annual appreciation rate in Kansas City is around 5-6%. This means that homes in the area have consistently increased in value year-over-year, making the market a strong investment for long-term buyers. Even with fluctuations in interest rates and market conditions, Kansas City has proven to be a stable real estate market with continued growth.
By purchasing a home in Kansas City now, you can benefit from this steady appreciation. Over time, your property’s value will likely increase, allowing you to build substantial equity and wealth.
What’s the alternative? Continuing to rent and missing out on potential equity gains. It’s important to remember that renting builds wealth—for your landlord—not for you.
Creative Solutions for Today’s Market
While today’s housing market presents challenges, there are strategies to help make buying a home more attainable. Consider exploring:
- More affordable areas
- Condos or townhomes
- Down payment assistance programs
At Abby Powers & Company, we specialize in helping clients navigate the Kansas City real estate market. Our team knows how to find creative solutions to make homeownership a reality. Whether you’re looking in Liberty, Parkville, Smithville, Kearney, or the Northland, we have the local expertise to guide you.
The Bottom Line
If you’re weighing whether to buy now or wait, keep this in mind: It’s time in the market, not timing the market, that matters most. The sooner you buy, the sooner you start building equity and growing your wealth.
Abby Powers & Company is here to help you explore your options in the Kansas City metro area. Let’s talk about how we can position you for success in today’s market. Reach out today to start your journey to homeownership with the trusted real estate team in Kansas City.
Contact us now: 816-295-9835
