Should You Wait to Sell Your Home If Sales Are Down?

In a market like Bend — where home sales have slowed but prices remain high — many homeowners are asking the same question: "Should I wait to sell?"

The short answer? Not necessarily. Here's why selling now might still be the smart move — and when it might make sense to hold off.

✅ Why Selling Now Could Be a Good Move

1. Low Inventory = Less Competition

Fewer homes are hitting the market, which means yours has a better chance of standing out — especially if it’s clean, updated, and priced right. In a low-inventory market like Central Oregon, a great listing still gets attention.

2. Prices Are Holding Steady — or Even Climbing

Despite slower buyer activity, prices in Bend are still near all-time highs. If you’ve built equity over the past few years, you may be in a strong position to cash out at a favorable price.

3. The Buyers Out There Are Serious

With high interest rates, many casual browsers have stepped back. But those still in the market are typically more motivated — especially out-of-town buyers, investors, and folks making life transitions.

🕓 When It Might Make Sense to Wait

1. You're Not Ready Logistically or Emotionally

If you're not sure where you’re going next, or your home needs major repairs, waiting a few months (or longer) could be smarter. Use the time to get organized and boost your curb appeal.

2. Higher Rates Are Limiting Your Buyer Pool

If your home is in a price range that’s heavily impacted by interest rate changes, you may have fewer potential buyers than usual. Consider this when setting your timeline.

3. You're Also Planning to Buy

If you’re selling and buying in the same market, you're subject to the same pricing conditions on both ends. That can balance out, but you’ll want to be strategic about timing and financing.

💡 The Bottom Line: Timing the Market vs. Timing Your Life

The market will always ebb and flow. But major life decisions — like downsizing, relocating, or moving closer to family — won’t wait forever.

If selling helps you reach a personal or financial goal, you may not need to wait for the “perfect” conditions. After all, the right time to sell is often when it makes the most sense for you — not just the headlines.

👋 Thinking About Selling?

If you’re on the fence, let’s chat. I can help you:

• Estimate your current home value

• Run the numbers on your next move

• Put together a low-cost prep plan

There’s no pressure — just local insight to help you make a smart, confident decision.

FAQs

1. If home sales are down, does that mean it’s a bad time to sell?

Not necessarily. Even if fewer homes are selling, prices in many areas — like Bend — remain high. Less competition can make your home stand out if it’s priced and presented well.

2. Will I lose money if I sell now?

Only if you bought at the very peak and prices have dropped significantly — which isn’t the case in most of Central Oregon. If you’ve owned your home for a few years, odds are you’ve gained enough equity to make a profitable sale.

3. Should I wait for rates to drop before selling?

Rates primarily affect buyers, not sellers — unless you’re also buying your next home. If rates drop, more buyers may enter the market, but that could also mean more competition from other sellers.

4. What if my home needs work and I can’t afford big upgrades?

That’s okay! Some buyers are specifically looking for homes they can personalize. Focus on low-cost improvements like cleaning, decluttering, paint, and small repairs.

5. Can I sell my home and still buy another with today’s rates?

Yes, but planning ahead is crucial. If you need to buy and sell at the same time, a real estate agent can help you line up financing, timing, and contingency options.

6. Is it better to rent out my home and sell later?

Renting could be a short-term solution, but it comes with risks — repairs, tenant management, tax implications. If your goal is to cash out, selling may be simpler and less stressful.