Waiting until fall won’t make homes more affordable, but here’s what will

A lot of folks are holding out for fall, hoping home prices will drop—but the reality is, affordability isn’t likely to improve just by waiting. Right now, the income needed to purchase a median-priced home in the U.S. has nearly doubled to over $120,000. With mortgage rates hovering near 6.5% and prices still on the rise, postponing your plans might not lead to better options. Down payments typically range from 6 to 9%, though there are lower or even zero down payment programs available for some buyers. As someone who’s walked clients through these ups and downs since 1985, my experience has taught me that preparation and information are your best tools. Whether you’re preparing for a first home, downsizing, or navigating a big life change, the smartest move is to be well-prepared—so you can act with confidence when the right opportunity comes along.