4 Tips for Buying a Home When Interest Rates are High

Buying a home feels tough right now—rates are up, and prices aren’t dropping.
But here’s the good news: with the right plan, it’s still totally doable. Here are four simple ways to make homeownership work for you—even in today’s market.

 
1. Look at Fixer-Uppers

Homes that need a little love often cost less. If the bones are good, but the kitchen’s outdated or the bathroom needs some updates, it could be a smart move. A little DIY or a few upgrades over time can really pay off.

💡 Pro tip: Focus on homes that just need cosmetic changes. Paint, lighting, and some elbow grease can go a long way.

 
2. Save More Upfront

The more you put down, the less you borrow. That means lower monthly payments and possibly better loan terms. Start small—daily savings can add up fast.

💰 Example: $5 a day = $1,800 in a year. That’s a solid boost to your down payment.

  
3. Seller-Paid Rate Buy-down

A seller-paid interest rate buy-down is exactly what it sounds like—the seller helps cover upfront costs to lower your mortgage rate. That means you get a smaller monthly payment, without paying extra out of pocket. It’s a win-win: the seller closes the deal, and you save money every month. If you’re buying in a slower market, this is definitely something worth asking about. We’ll help you spot the opportunity and keep the process easy.

  
4. Team Up with Someone You Trust

Buying with a friend or family member can increase your buying power. Two incomes mean you may qualify for more—and share the monthly costs. Just make sure you’re both on the same page with a clear agreement.

 
Bottom line: You’ve got options.
Even with higher rates, buying a home is still possible—and smart—with the right approach.

* Be open to fixer-uppers
* Save more where you can
* Ask about seller paid interest rate buy-downs
* Consider co-buying with someone you trust

 Now is still a smart time to buy—especially before prices or rates change again.Ready to take the next step toward homeownership? Book a quick call with us today - we'll keep it super simple.