What If I Wait to Sell My House Until 2026?

It’s tempting to wait for a better market. Thousands of homeowners in Maricopa County are wondering: Will 2026 be a better time to sell? For military homeowners near Luke AFB facing PCS moves, the decision is even tougher. Selling now could lock in equity, but waiting might seem safer. Here’s a breakdown of the risks and benefits to help you decide.

🔮 What Could Be Better in 2026?

Waiting until 2026 might offer some advantages, but they’re not guaranteed. Here’s what could improve:

• Lower mortgage rates: If rates drop from 7%, more buyers might qualify for loans.
• More buyer demand: A stronger economy could bring buyers back to the market.
• Time to prepare: You’d have months to fix, stage, or upgrade your home for a better price.

However, these are speculative. Economic data, like rising consumer debt, suggests 2026 may not be the rebound year you hope for. Check our guide to selling near Luke AFB for local insights.

⚠️ What Could Be Worse in 2026?

Waiting comes with serious risks that could cost you. Here’s what might happen:

• Home values drop further: Prices could fall 5–10% by Q3 2026, per local forecasts.
• Equity shrinks: A $400,000 home today could lose $20,000–$40,000 in value.
• More competition: A flood of sellers could make it harder to stand out.
• Tighter lending: Banks may raise loan requirements, shrinking the buyer pool.

💡 Why Selling Now Makes Sense

Selling in 2025 could protect your financial future. Here’s why it’s a smart move:

• Buyers are still active: VA and cash buyers are hunting deals in Maricopa County.
• Sell and lease back: Sell now, stay in your home, and move when ready—perfect for PCS.
• Cash and VA demand: Near Luke AFB, these buyers are still closing deals in 2025.
• Avoid a price race: Beat the rush of sellers if the market worsens in 2026.

🔍 Real Example: A Mesa Seller’s Win

In April 2025, a Mesa homeowner planned to wait until 2026, expecting better prices. After a free consultation with our Luke AFB selling experts, they listed their 3-bed, 2-bath home. We priced it 4% below comps, staged it, and marketed to VA buyers. It sold in 10 days for $47,000 more than their Zestimate projected for 2026, with a 45-day leaseback for a smooth PCS move.

💵 Cash Buyers: What to Expect

Cash buyers, like investors, are active in 2025, often offering 20–30% below market value for quick sales. In Maricopa County, they target distressed homes or urgent PCS sales, closing in 7–14 days. The discount can hurt, but our top agents can negotiate better terms or use our Enhanced MLS Experience to attract full-price VA buyers.

📞 Ready to Sell Before 2026 Risks Hit?

We help sellers time the market right. Whether you need a cash offer, lease-back, or help buying before you sell, our team specializes in military relocations and urgent sales near Luke AFB. Visit our homepage to learn more.

❓ FAQs: Waiting vs. Selling Now

What if mortgage rates go down in 2026?

Rates might drop, but prices could fall too, and more sellers may flood the market, reducing your advantage.

Will home values go back up in 2026?

It’s uncertain. Debt, affordability, and inventory could push prices down before any rebound.

Can I sell now but move in 2026?

Yes, our Sell and Lease Back program lets you sell now and stay until you’re ready to move.

Do cash buyers offer less than market value?

Yes, cash buyers often offer 20–30% below market value, but our team can negotiate better terms.

What’s the best time to sell a home in Maricopa County?

Spring and summer attract more buyers, but well-priced homes sell year-round with the right strategy.

📦 Your Selling Options Compared

🌸 When Should You Sell?

Timing your sale can protect your equity. Here’s a breakdown of Maricopa County’s selling seasons:

• Spring (Mar–May): Peak demand, families moving. Prices are highest. Best for: Traditional sellers.
• Summer (Jun–Aug): PCS season with active VA buyers. Best for: Military sellers.
• Fall (Sep–Nov): Slower, buyers want deals. Best for: Cash offers.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Quiet, only motivated buyers. Best for: Fast closes.

Local VA and Cash Buyer Trends

Near Luke AFB, VA buyers make up 30% of the market, targeting move-in-ready homes under $450,000. Cash buyers offer 20–30% below market value, focusing on distressed or urgent sales in neighborhoods like Mesa and Glendale. Last quarter, 40% of sales near the base went to VA buyers, per MLS data.

Seller Timelines Near Luke AFB

Well-priced homes sell in 15–30 days. Cash sales close in 7–14 days, while leasebacks extend timelines to 60–90 days for PCS sellers needing flexibility.