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Is It a Good Time to Buy a House? Here’s What The Numbers Say

January 19, 2022

The Highs and Lows of Interest Rates

When considering whether it's the right time to buy a house, it's essential to examine the market trends.

THome values in Minneapolis have risen consistently since 2012, with no signs of a slowdown. Mortgage rates have climbed significantly from the historic lows of 2021, making affordability a real challenge for many buyers. Understanding what's driving the market helps you make a smarter decision about when and whether to buy. 

Home Prices on The Rise

Rising demand is the biggest driver of higher home prices. The more buyers competing for available homes, the faster prices climb.

In Minnesota, the housing market peaks in summer. Key benchmarks to know:

  • Best month to list: June
  • Average days to receive an offer: ~35 days
  • Average days to close after offer: ~35 days

If you're buying, expect competition to be highest during those warmer months.

The Challenges of Buying a Home

Inventory is limited. Homes are selling fast. Finding the right property at the right price takes patience and flexibility.


Here are three approaches that can help:

  • Be open to a new location: Your ideal city may not be realistic in today's market. Consider nearby suburbs, neighboring counties, or even a different state. Remote work has made relocation more practical than ever.
  • Consider a fixer-upper: A home that needs work often comes at a lower price. You can renovate over time or partner with a builder like Sustainable 9 to bring it up to your standards. It's a good path if you want character and room to personalize.
  • Define your must-haves: Before you start searching, write down the features you cannot live without. Natural light, a home office, a certain school district. Knowing your priorities keeps your search focused and your decisions faster.

It's a Seller's Market

Sellers currently have the advantage. Homes are moving quickly and prices are strong. If you're thinking about selling, conditions are favorable.

If you're buying, the math is harder. Higher prices combined with higher mortgage rates mean monthly payments are significantly more than they were a few years ago. That doesn't mean it's the wrong time to buy, but it does mean the decision deserves careful thought.

Choosing The Right Time To Buy

There's no universal right answer. The best time to buy depends on your finances, your goals, and your timeline.

Ask yourself these four questions before moving forward:

  • Do you have enough saved for a down payment?
  • Can you comfortably cover the monthly mortgage, closing costs, and moving expenses?
  • Is your credit score strong enough to qualify for a loan?
  • Are you likely to stay long enough to sell at or above what you paid?

If you can answer yes to all four, you're in a strong position. If not, it may be worth waiting and building toward those benchmarks first. Talk to a realtor or financial advisor before making any final decisions.

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