THE HOUSING MARKET IS FROZEN
- Tristen Campanella
- Apr 30
- 3 min read
Why the Housing Market Feels So Weird Right Now—and What Might Happen Next
Let’s just name it: The housing market feels weird right now. Unsettling. Confusing. Maybe even a little frozen. If you’re feeling this way, you’re not imagining it.
What’s Going On With the Market?
We’re in a strange and uncommon window right now:
Home prices are up 4%
Interest rates are hovering around 6.7%
This combo of high prices and high rates is leaving buyers and sellers both feeling unsure—and I see it every single day.
Buyers Are Hesitating—And I Get It
If you’re a buyer, you’re likely thinking:
“Is this the right time to buy?”
“What if I buy now and prices drop?”
“What if interest rates go up even more?”
With inflation stretching monthly budgets and rates impacting affordability, it's a tough call.
Sellers Are Feeling Stuck
Many homeowners have a super low interest rate from the last few years—and the idea of giving that up for a 6%+ mortgage… even when their lifestyle is changing… feels like a tough (and expensive) move.
So yes, the market is moving slowly.Inventory is up in some price ranges, and movement has stalled in others.
But it’s not just the housing numbers.
Let’s Talk About the Bigger Picture: Economic Anxiety
There’s a wider sense of financial uncertainty out there:
📉 Volatile stock market💼 Job insecurity and layoff fears💰 Rising costs across the board📰 Mixed messages about recession
People aren’t just worried about real estate.They’re worried about everything—and that affects confidence, timing, and motivation.
What Might Happen in the Next 3–6 Months?
While no one has a crystal ball, here are 3 likely scenarios:
📉 Scenario 1: Rates Drop Slightly
If inflation cools, we could see a slight dip in rates. That might boost buyer activity again. But don’t expect a price crash—in hot San Diego markets, prices could even climb further due to competition and low supply.
🕰️ Scenario 2: Rates Stay High + Inventory Grows
If rates hold steady, we may settle into a slower-paced, more balanced market. Sellers may start listing due to life circumstances, creating new opportunities for buyers—but without the frenzy of past years.
📉 Scenario 3: Economic Shock Slows the Market
If the stock market takes a sharp turn or layoffs increase, buyer activity could slow even more. That could lead to more price reductions, longer time on market, and room to negotiate for prepared buyers.
So, Should You Wait?
Here's the truth: timing the market perfectly is nearly impossible. Life doesn’t pause for perfect interest rates or ideal stock portfolios. People are buying and selling homes every single day because their lives are changing.
Whether you’re buying your first home or selling to start a new chapter, you just need a plan—and a guide.
What to Do if You’re a Buyer
✅ Know your numbers
✅ Talk to a mortgage broker who can shop rates for you
✅ Focus on long-term value—will this home work for 5+ years?✅ Be ready to move when the right property appears
What to Do if You’re a Seller
✅ Price your home strategically for today’s market
✅ Work with an agent who offers real marketing (not just iPhone pics!)
✅ Make sure your agent has a strong plan to reach qualified buyers
✅ Know your goals and timeline—and make sure your strategy supports them
Final Thoughts
This market is weird, yes. But weird doesn't mean bad. It means opportunity for those with the right plan.
And you don’t have to figure this out on your own.
📞 Call me 📧 Email me 💬 Text me
There’s no pressure, no push—just a real conversation about your options, your life, and your next chapter.
Or, join me in one of my Home Buyer or Home Seller Webinars—where we dig into market strategy, financial planning, and real-time local insights to help you make smart decisions.
Thanks for being here.As always, I’m here when you’re ready.