If you're thinking about buying a home but feel unsure because of high mortgage rates, rising prices, or a shaky economy—you're not alone. Many buyers are waiting for the “perfect” time. But according to real estate legend Barbara Corcoran, now might actually be your best chance to make a smart move.

Corcoran, who built a real estate empire from just $1,000, says that uncertainty is exactly when the best deals happen. While other buyers are hesitating, she’s out there buying—and she thinks more people should do the same.

Here are 3 reasons why now could be the right time for you to stop sitting on the sidelines and find your next home:

1. When You Can Buy Below Market Value

Everybody loves a deal. But in real estate, the best deals often hide in plain sight, especially during volatile times. If you score a home below market value, you’re already ahead, because that’s where the profit shows up when it’s time to sell.

“Anything bought below market will prove a good investment, and you’ll make money on it when you sell it later.”

Right now, that opportunity is growing. According to Realtor.com’s April 2025 Housing Report:

• The number of homes on the market is up 30.6% year over year—the highest level since the pandemic.
• Pending home sales are down 3.2% from last year, a sign that more homes are sitting longer.

Chief Economist Danielle Hale puts it simply: more inventory means more room to negotiate. With listings piling up, sellers are getting more flexible on pricing—and many are starting to lower their asking price.

2. When Sellers Come Back to the Table

In hot markets, sellers have their pick of offers. But in uncertain markets? Some come crawling back.

“I’m happy to report that sellers who turned me away four months ago are calling me back,” says Corcoran. That shift in tone signals more than desperation—it’s leverage for prepared buyers.

With fewer bidding wars, today’s buyers may find:

• Reconsidered offers from once-dismissive sellers
• More favorable terms—including credits, repairs, or closing cost assistance
• An opening to get creative with financing or contingencies

Corcoran’s advice? Don’t just wait for an invitation. Make the first move. “Shopping for a good deal is easier” when competition fades and sellers start listening.

3. When the Market Feels “Spooky”

This one’s pure instinct. And it’s the playbook Corcoran swears by.

“When the market is uncertain, as it is now, I realize that’s a signal that I should be out there buying property, and that’s exactly what I do. 

“In the spooky economic and political market we’re experiencing, there are great deals to be had—you just have to get off your butt and make an offer!”

In her words, hesitation kills deals. And sometimes, “overpaying” isn’t really overpaying if you know what you want. 

“I’ve overpaid for almost every piece of property I’ve bought. If I like it, I buy it, and I don’t live to regret it! 

“The way I figure it, is if I fall in love with a property and what it has to offer, I assume there are three other people who want to outbid me, so I close the deal and move as fast as I can.” 

Byron commented on this to drive home the point that, decade by decade, home values trend upward by a significant margin. Whether you overpay on your home or not, equity growth eventually more than makes up for it. 

The Bottom Line: Don’t Let Fear Keep You from a Smart Move

Here’s the truth: when the market gets better, it won’t just get better for you—it’ll get better for everyone. More buyers will rush in, and the competition will return. That means fewer deals, tougher negotiations, and faster-moving homes.

But right now? You have options. You have time to shop. And you have motivated sellers.

This is your moment to act like a smart buyer—not a nervous one. Whether it’s your first home, your dream home, or an investment, the real estate icon herself says the opportunity is here now—you just have to take it.

So go ahead—start your search, explore your financing options, and get ready to make your move before the rest of the market wakes up.

Need help taking the next step? Let’s connect. The best opportunities are waiting for buyers who are ready to act. 🏡