Why Waiting to Buy in 2026 Could Cost You More Than You Think
Why Waiting to Buy in 2026 Could Cost You More Than You Think
2026 Housing Market Update: What Buyers Need to Know
🏡 Thinking about buying a home this year? You’re not alone - but if you’re waiting for “perfect” mortgage rates before making a move, this 2026 housing market update may convince you otherwise. You could be missing the best window.
🗓️ Updated as of January 29, 2026
This blog builds on a recent video from Summit Lending CEO Darren “DC” Copeland and has been refreshed with the latest 2026 market developments. The takeaway? Smart buyers win by acting early - not by trying to time the bottom.
📺 Watch the Full Video Breakdown
DC Copeland breaks it down in under 3 minutes - where mortgage rates are headed, what most buyers miss, and why 2026 offers unique leverage.
👉 Watch now on YouTube
🔔 New Update: What Just Changed (Jan 29)
🔴 Senate Blocks Funding Bill: Shutdown Odds Climb
Congress is once again on the brink. The Senate just blocked the House’s funding package, pushing the likelihood of a partial government shutdown above 80%. With the January 30 deadline looming, this could inject short-term volatility into rates and buyer sentiment.
🔥 What it Means for You
- Mortgage rates remain stable (for now)
- Housing demand continues to build
- Experts still expect a gradual rate decline, not a crash
Takeaway: Don't let headlines hijack your long-term plan.
🌟 Where Mortgage Rates Are Really Headed
No one can predict exact numbers - but the signals are clear:
🔻 Inflation has cooled from the past few years
🧊 The Fed is shifting from hikes to stability
📊 Economists forecast a step-down trend, not a dramatic drop
Even a small rate drop can trigger big buyer demand. The result? Price increases and renewed competition.
“Waiting on rates has cost buyers more money than high rates ever did.” - DC Copeland
🏛️ Housing Inventory: Still Tight
📉 Builders underbuilt for years
🏠 Homeowners with low rates are staying put
🔄 Inventory remains well below normal
Prices are unlikely to fall meaningfully even as rates ease. Instead, lower rates mean more bidding wars and price spikes.
🧐 DC’s Golden Rule: Marry the House, Date the Rate
Why this mindset works:
💸 Rates can be refinanced later
🕗 Time and opportunity can't be recovered
🌟 Higher rates = more negotiation power (for now)
Buyers today can still benefit from:
- Seller concessions
- Rate buydowns
- Negotiable pricing
All of that goes away when competition returns.
🌟 This Week's Additional Highlights (Jan 26 Recap)
🏛️ Government Funding Drama Continues
Congress is deadlocked over DHS and ICE funding. Markets are pricing an 80% chance of at least a partial shutdown. But the broader impact on housing? Likely minimal in the long term.
🏦 Big Mortgage News: FHFA Lifts MBS Limits
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can now buy up to $450B in mortgage-backed securities (up from $40B). This added liquidity could help compress mortgage rates further.
💼 401(k) for Down Payments? A Smart Move for Some
💵 $10K from a 401(k) as 10% down on a $100K home
🏠 3% home appreciation = $3,000 gain
📊 That's a 30% return on your $10K investment
This strategy isn't for everyone, but it's a powerful teaching moment for first-time buyers.
🔢 The Bottom Line
If you’re planning to buy in 2026:
📈 Rates are easing
🏡 Inventory is still low
🤝 Acting now gives you leverage
“The best buyers don't wait for perfect conditions - they use imperfect ones intelligently.”
📢 Ready to build your game plan?
Call 816-268-4025 or email darren@summitlendingusa.com
🤔 FAQ: Smart 2026 Buyer Questions
Q: Should I wait until the shutdown drama ends?
A: Not necessarily. Shutdowns often cause short blips in the market - not long-term changes.
Q: What if rates drop after I buy?
A: You refinance! That's why DC says: “You marry the house, not the rate.”
Q: Is this advice relevant nationwide?
A: Yes. Local markets vary, but the fundamentals (inventory, demand, rates) apply across the country.
Q: Can I use my 401(k) for a down payment?
A: Possibly. Some proposals allow it. Always consult a mortgage advisor to weigh your options.
📺 Don't forget to watch the full video from DC for more insights - and subscribe for weekly market updates!