If you’re considering investing in real estate in the United States, you’ve probably asked yourself this question: Is it better to buy now or wait for prices or interest rates to drop? The reality is that waiting could end up costing you more. Here’s why:

Home Prices are expected to keep rising

According to the Fannie Mae Home Price Expectations Survey, U.S. home prices are projected to increase by an average of 3.4% in 2025 and 3.3% in 2026. While this growth is more moderate than in previous years, the trend remains upward.

For example:
If you purchase a $400,000 property today, in five years it could be worth around $470,000. That’s a $70,000 gain in value, not counting any rental income if you decide to lease it out.

Interest Rates remain high, but that shouldn’t stop you

It’s true that mortgage rates are still elevated, with forecasts suggesting the 30-year rate could reach 6.75% by the end of 2025. However, trying to “wait for the perfect moment” can be counterproductive. While you wait for rates to fall, property prices continue to rise, which could lead to paying more in the future12.

Buying now lets you start building equity

By purchasing a property today, you begin building equity immediately. Equity is the difference between your property’s value and what you owe on the mortgage. Over time, as you pay down your loan and your property appreciates, your equity grows—becoming a significant source of long-term wealth12.

Opportunities for International Investors

For Latin American investors, the U.S. real estate market offers several advantages:

• Income in dollars: Renting out U.S. properties generates income in a strong currency.

• Investment diversification: U.S. real estate helps diversify your portfolio and shields you from local market volatility.

• Financing options: There are financing programs designed for foreign investors, making it easier to buy property without being a resident.

Conclusion: The Best Time to Buy Is NOW

If you have the financial capacity to invest now, doing so allows you to benefit from ongoing market growth, start generating income and equity right away, and work with an expert to help you identify the best areas, negotiate favorable terms, and manage the entire process from your home country.