Preview Orange County Real Estate Blog

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the real estate market and thinking:

“I’ll wait for interest rates to drop before I buy.”

You're not alone—and it’s a reasonable thought. Rates may indeed come down. But here’s what we’re seeing savvy, strategic buyers do right now:

They’re not waiting.
They’re getting creative—and winning on both timing and terms.

At The Aaronson Group, we’ve helped numerous clients craft smart, forward-looking strategies that allow them to buy now while maximizing long-term financial advantages. Here's how the best are doing it:

1. Leveraging Seller-Paid Rate Buydowns

(Yes, they’re back—and more relevant than ever.)

Today’s market is ripe for negotiation, and sellers are increasingly open to contributing toward closing costs, especially interest rate buydowns.

• Permanent Buydowns
  Ideal for buyers planning to hold their loan long-term—especially those who are self-employed or using alternative documentation. You lock in a lower rate from day one, giving you predictable long-term savings.

• Temporary Buydowns
  These are gaining popularity fast. Buyers enjoy a significantly reduced interest rate for the first 1–2 years—often 2–3% lower—while waiting for an opportunity to refinance when rates drop.

Aaronson Pro Insight:
Lock in your purchase price today—while inventory is higher and competition is manageable. Then refinance later if and when rates decline. It’s not about “timing the market”; it’s about hedging intelligently.

2. Start Window Shopping Early—No Pressure, All Clarity

While today’s inventory isn’t perfect, it’s the best we’ve seen in months—and it presents a real opportunity for buyers who are prepared.

We always encourage our clients to begin their search early. Whether your buying timeline is two weeks or six months, nothing replaces the insight you gain from walking through homes.

You’ll learn what truly matters to you—layout, light, flow, location—and you’ll gain clarity on how to align your goals with the market’s realities.

3. Sellers Are Stepping Up Their Game

Sellers who want results are becoming more strategic. The homes selling fastest right now have three things in common:

• They show beautifully

• They’re priced to reflect current market conditions

• They’re supported by strategic incentives, like seller-paid buydowns

Smart sellers understand that offering a financial incentive can be the differentiator that gets their property sold faster—and for a stronger price.

Let’s Build Your Strategy

Whether you’re ready to buy now or just laying the groundwork, The Aaronson Group is here to help you think bigger, plan smarter, and act confidently.

This market isn’t about waiting on the sidelines.
It’s about having the right strategy, structure, and support—right now.

Reach out today, and let’s explore what’s possible and take the next step toward your real estate goals in Orange County. Call: 949-388-5194 or email: info@previewochomes.com