For the last few years, much of the conversation around housing has focused on what consumers are waiting for. They’re waiting for rates to fall, for affordability to improve, or waiting for the “right” time to buy or sell. But recent housing sentiment data suggests something interesting: consumers may be becoming more comfortable with today’s market than many industry professionals realize.
According to the latest TurboHome-ResiClub Housing Sentiment Survey, 47% of homeowners said they would accept a mortgage rate of up to 6.0% on their next home purchase, up from 42% in early 2025. The survey also found that one-third of homeowners would be more likely to purchase if rates moved below 6.0%.
What does that tell us? Consumers may not be waiting for perfect conditions. They may simply be looking for confidence that they can make a smart decision in the market we have today.
And that’s an important shift. Because when consumers stop asking, “When will things change?” they start asking, “How do I move forward?” Those are very different conversations.
Agents spend a great deal of time discussing market conditions. Consumers, however, are often focused on understanding their options, such as:
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Can they afford the monthly payment?
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Should they move before selling their current home?
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Does buying today still make sense if rates change tomorrow?
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What opportunities exist that they may not even realize are available?
These aren’t just real estate questions — they’re financing questions. That’s why the partnership between Baird & Warner and Key Mortgage is so valuable. Every day, we help consumers move beyond assumptions and better understand what is possible, whether that’s exploring downpayment assistance, evaluating a move-up purchase, reviewing affordability, or simply gaining clarity around today’s financing landscape.
Together, we can help clients move beyond headlines and assumptions and replace uncertainty with a plan. Whether they’re ready to move tomorrow, six months from now, or sometime next year, the conversation starts with understanding what’s possible.