Why Waiting Until 2026 Could Cost You More in AZ Real Estate

Thinking about buying a home in Arizona, but tempted to wait another year or two? You’re not alone. Many potential buyers are sitting on the fence, wondering if the market will cool off or if interest rates will drop. But here’s the truth: waiting until 2026 could end up costing you more than you think.

Rising Home Prices

Arizona’s real estate market has shown remarkable resilience. Even when the broader economy wobbles, demand for homes in the Grand Canyon State keeps pushing prices upward. With population growth, job opportunities, and a steady influx of new residents, experts predict that home values will keep climbing. If you wait, you might find yourself paying a premium for the same house you could buy today at a lower price.

Interest Rates: The Wild Card

While interest rates have been a roller coaster lately, there’s no guarantee they’ll drop significantly by 2026. Even a small increase in rates can mean hundreds of extra dollars per month on your mortgage. Locking in a rate now, even if it’s not at historic lows, could save you thousands over the life of your loan.

Inventory Isn’t Waiting for You

Arizona’s housing inventory remains tight. As more buyers jump into the market, competition heats up, and bidding wars become the norm. The longer you wait, the tougher it could be to find your dream home—or any home at all—in your preferred neighborhood.

Building Equity Sooner

Every month you wait is a month you’re not building equity. Homeownership is one of the most reliable ways to grow personal wealth. By acting now, you start paying yourself instead of your landlord, and you benefit from any appreciation that happens in the market.

Final Thoughts

No one can predict the future with certainty, but the trends in Arizona real estate are clear: prices are rising, inventory is tight, and waiting could cost you more. If you’re ready to make a move, 2025 might just be your year to jump in before the market leaves you behind.