Why Waiting Could Cost You in Colorado Real Estate
With interest rates higher than we’ve seen in recent years, many homebuyers across Colorado — especially in Douglas County and Jefferson County — are pausing their plans, waiting for the “right time” to move up. But here’s the thing — while you wait, the real estate market in these fast-growing areas keeps moving. And that can cost you more than you think.
In this post, I’ll walk you through:
- Why waiting on interest rates may be costing you more than you realize
- How building equity now can give you a financial head start
- What a refinance strategy could look like if rates fall later
- And a side-by-side look at the real math behind buying now vs. waiting
This is especially helpful for families upgrading homes in Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Castle Rock, or other desirable Jefferson and Douglas County neighborhoods.
Why Waiting on Rates May Cost You More
There’s a misconception that high interest rates = bad timing. But while you wait, home values — especially in markets like Littleton, Castle Pines, Golden, and surrounding Denver suburbs — continue to climb.
Let’s say you’re eyeing a $700,000 home in Douglas County. At a 6% appreciation rate, that same home might cost $742,000 in just one year. Even if rates drop slightly, you could end up paying more for the same property — while also facing increased competition from buyers re-entering the market.
How Equity Works for You in Colorado’s Competitive Market
Buying now means you begin building equity immediately. While your interest rate may be higher at first, each mortgage payment still reduces your loan balance and increases your ownership stake in the home.
Plus, appreciation works in your favor. That $700,000 home in Jefferson County could be worth $770,000 in two years, giving you a $70K boost in value — on top of what you’ve already paid down.
The Refinance Strategy: A Smart Option for Colorado Buyers
There’s a misconception that high interest rates = bad timing. But while you wait, home values — especially in markets like Littleton, Castle Pines, Golden, and surrounding Denver suburbs — continue to climb.
Let’s say you’re eyeing a $700,000 home in Douglas County. At a 6% appreciation rate, that same home might cost $742,000 in just one year. Even if rates drop slightly, you could end up paying more for the same property — while also facing increased competition from buyers re-entering the market.
The Real Math — Buy Now vs. Wait in Jefferson & Douglas County
Scenario | Buy Now (7%) | Wait 1 Year (Rates Drop to 6%) |
Home Price | $700,000 | $742,000 |
Down Payment (10%) | $70,000 | $74,200 |
Loan Amount | $630,000 | $667,800 |
Monthly P&I | ~$4,190 | ~$4,000 |
Equity After 1 Year | ~$40,000 | $0 |
Even if the monthly payment drops slightly, you’ve missed out on tens of thousands in equity — and may be competing with more buyers in hot communities like Roxborough Park, Evergreen, or Highlands Ranch.
The Real Math — Buy Now vs. Wait in Jefferson & Douglas County
Scenario | Buy Now (7%) | Wait 1 Year (Rates Drop to 6%) |
Home Price | $700,000 | $742,000 |
Down Payment (10%) | $70,000 | $74,200 |
Loan Amount | $630,000 | $667,800 |
Monthly P&I | ~$4,190 | ~$4,000 |
Equity After 1 Year | ~$40,000 | $0 |
Even if the monthly payment drops slightly, you’ve missed out on tens of thousands in equity — and may be competing with more buyers in hot communities like Roxborough Park, Evergreen, or Highlands Ranch.
Bottom Line for Buyers in Douglas & Jefferson County
If you’re financially ready, waiting for rates to drop could mean paying more, losing out on equity, and competing in a tighter market. Buying smart now — and planning to refinance later — gives you a strategic edge, especially in Colorado’s desirable neighborhoods.
Let's Run the numbers Together
