Buying Strategies
Ready to Buy in 2026? Why This May Be the Best Time in 3 Years
Market conditions, inventory trends, and rate outlooks that make 2026 a compelling window for buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines.
What You Will Learn
After years of watching the market from the sidelines, many buyers are wondering whether 2026 is finally the right time to jump in. In this video, Patrick shares an honest assessment of current market conditions including inventory levels, interest rate trends, and the factors that make this year different from the last few.
Timing the market perfectly is never the goal. Patrick's approach is about understanding where the market actually is versus where it has been, so you can make an informed decision based on your how much house you can afford and personal readiness rather than headlines. He covers the signals he watches as a loan officer and real estate agent to help buyers feel confident about moving forward.
Market conditions change:
The market conditions, interest rates, and inventory levels Patrick discusses in this video are based on the market at the time of recording. Mortgage rates and housing inventory fluctuate. Contact Patrick for an update on current conditions in the San Antonio and Texas Hill Country market.
Key Takeaways
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Inventory Is Improving Compared to Recent Years
More homes are available for sale now than in the previous two years, giving buyers more choices and less competition. Patrick explains how increased inventory shifts negotiating power back toward buyers.
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Interest Rates Have Stabilized Compared to Recent Volatility
The rapid rate increases of the previous cycle have leveled off. While rates are not at the historic lows of a few years ago, stability makes planning easier and opens up strategies like rate buydowns that are harder to plan for in a volatile market.
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Sellers Are More Willing to Negotiate
With more inventory and fewer multiple-offer situations, Patrick sees sellers offering more concessions including closing cost credits, rate buydowns, and price adjustments. This creates opportunities for buyers who are prepared to act.
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Waiting Has Its Own Costs
Patrick reminds buyers that waiting for the perfect market conditions has real costs: rising rents, forgone home equity, and potential price appreciation. He walks through how to weigh the cost of waiting against the benefit of buying now.
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Personal Readiness Matters More Than Market Timing
The best time to buy is when you are financially ready and find a home that fits your needs. Patrick encourages buyers to focus on their own readiness job stability, credit health, savings, and long-term plans before trying to time the market.
Continue Learning
Read the companion blog post on whether now is the time to buy with expanded analysis of San Antonio market trends.
Check out the seasonal timing guide to learn when inventory and seller motivation peak during the year.
Get the First-Time Homebuyer Roadmap so you know exactly what steps to take when you decide the timing is right for you.
Want a Current Market Assessment for San Antonio?
Patrick can give you an honest take on today's market conditions and help you decide whether now is the right time for your situation.
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