The real estate market has always been a topic of conversation—especially when uncertainty is high. In 2025, that conversation is louder than ever.
According to the Bank of America 2025 Homebuyer Insights Report, a record-high 60% of Americans say they can’t tell whether now is a good time to buy a home. That’s up from 57% in 2024 and 48% in 2023. The trend shows a growing wave of uncertainty, and if you’re feeling confused, you’re far from alone.
So what’s really going on?
Despite rising uncertainty, hope isn’t lost. Here’s what the numbers are telling us:
- 52% of future buyers still feel hopeful about the market.
- 75% are waiting for prices and interest rates to drop.
- Gen Z is hustling to make homeownership possible—working extra jobs, co-buying with siblings, and even moving in with family to save money and hit their milestone.
Climate Is Shaping Buyer Behavior
It’s not just prices and rates driving decisions anymore. Weather-related risks are starting to play a bigger role:
- 38% of buyers changed their ideal location due to climate concerns.
- 23% have experienced actual property damage from severe weather in the last 5 years.
These shifts are reshaping how and where people search for homes—proximity to coastlines, wildfire zones, and flood-prone areas are under more scrutiny than ever.
Uncertainty vs. Desire
Even in the face of rising costs, weather risks, and economic unknowns, the desire to own a home remains strong. The American dream of homeownership hasn’t faded—it’s just being reimagined for a new generation.
The Big Question: Buy Now or Wait?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right move depends on your financial goals, stability, timeline, and risk tolerance. But one thing is clear: uncertainty is now a major factor in the home buying journey—and navigating it takes knowledge, preparation, and the right support.
Sources: Bank of America 2025 Homebuyer Insights Report via PR Newswire