Can You Still Buy a Home with the Rates Up? Yes—Here’s How

By Jason Baker

Jason Baker is the leading listing agent in the entire regional mls for residential and or total units sold, 8 years running. He is a tireless worker, and surrounds himself with the best admin and sales team in Montana...and the results speak for themselves.

Let’s be honest, mortgage rates in 2025 aren’t what anyone hoped for. They’re higher, and it’s easy to feel like you’ve been priced out or like you should just wait for things to cool down. But here’s the part most people aren’t talking about: you can still buy a home you love without overextending yourself. You just need a smarter approach.

This market isn’t impossible; it’s just different. And different calls for a shift in mindset. Instead of getting caught up in the “what ifs” around rates, the key is to focus on what you can control: your budget, your buying strategy, and how you structure your offer. These are the areas where savvy buyers are finding success, even in a higher-rate environment. Here are three practical ways to move forward confidently in today’s market:

Build your plan around what you can afford each month, not just the rate. Chasing the lowest possible interest rate can feel like the right move, but it’s not the full picture. The reality is that your monthly payment is what affects your life every day. That’s what determines whether this decision feels sustainable or stressful.

Instead of waiting for the “perfect rate,” look at what monthly payment fits your budget right now. Whether that rate is 6% or 7%, if the payment works for your lifestyle, that’s what matters most. This approach keeps you grounded and puts your financial comfort first.

Take advantage of what’s negotiable. Many buyers don’t realize just how much flexibility exists in today’s market. Sellers and lenders alike are offering incentives to keep deals moving. Think closing cost credits, temporary rate buydowns, or lender-paid options that lower your upfront expenses.

These aren’t marketing gimmicks; they’re legitimate ways to reduce your costs, especially during those crucial early years of homeownership. With the right guidance, these tools can help you stay well within your budget without compromising on the home you want.

Buy now, refinance when rates drop. It’s tempting to wait and see if rates fall, but that strategy comes with risks. Home prices could continue to climb, and you might end up paying more for less later on. Buying now means you start building equity right away and lock in a home before prices potentially rise even further.

And if rates do come down in the future? That’s your chance to refinance and improve your monthly payment. You’re not stuck with today’s rate forever, but you are missing out on ownership benefits if you wait too long.

The truth is, waiting for the “perfect” time to buy often leads to missed opportunities. Instead, focus on building a plan that works for your current situation, with the flexibility to adjust when the market shifts.

If you’re feeling stuck because of rates, let’s talk. I’d love to help you map out a strategy that makes buying feel doable (and even exciting) again.