RateWait™ Calculator
Should You Buy Now or Wait for Mortgage Rates to Drop?
Waiting for a lower mortgage rate sounds simple, but the interest rate is only one part of the equation. Use the calculator below to see how buying now compares with waiting based on your assumptions.
Your Scenario
Advanced Assumptions
*The home price change you enter is the total change you expect during the waiting period, not an annual rate. After that period, the model uses the long-term annual appreciation assumption. PMI is estimated at 0.50% annually below 20% down and 0% at 20% or more. Property taxes and homeowners insurance rise with positive modeled home appreciation, but are not reduced when modeled home values decline.
Buy Now
Buy Now & Refinance Later
Wait 1 Year to Buy
Simple Comparison
The main numbers driving the result.
| Metric | Buy Now | Wait 1 Year |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | ||
| Mortgage rate at purchase | ||
| Initial monthly principal & interest | ||
| Rent paid while waiting | — | |
| Mortgage interest paid by comparison date | ||
| Ending home equity |
HAVE A PARTICULAR HOME IN MIND?
RateWait™ Calculator | © 2026 Brian Twiddy. All Rights Reserved.This is a “what if” tool, not a crystal ball. Mortgage rates, home values, taxes, insurance, and other costs can change, and everyone’s situation is different. This calculator is intended to help you explore how those moving pieces may affect the decision to buy now or wait — and I have to say it: this isn’t financial advice.
Have a particular home in mind? I’m happy to run the numbers with you and talk through what they mean.