Thinking About Waiting to Buy? You May Want To Think Twice!

Should you wait for home prices before buying? Here is what most experts are saying about the current housing market.
Apr 19, 2023

You might be curious about what your next move should be as a prospective homebuyer. One aspect that likely concerns you is home prices, which have decreased somewhat since their peak last June.

You may have also heard rumors of an impending price crash in the news or on social media, causing you to postpone buying a home until prices drop significantly. However, this may not be the wisest approach.

According to a recent Zonda survey, 53% of millennials still rent because they're waiting for home prices to drop. However, the latest data suggests that home prices have already hit bottom and are increasing.

Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, states that U.S. home prices rose by 0.8% in February, implying that prices in most markets have bottomed out.

So, should you continue waiting for home prices to decrease before purchasing a home?

According to most experts, it's probably not the best idea. Data indicates that prices are increasing in many parts of the country rather than decreasing.

Furthermore, the latest Home Price Expectation Survey suggests that experts forecast steady growth in home prices, returning to more typical appreciation levels after 2023. So if you're waiting for home prices to drop before buying, you should reconsider.

The best way to understand how home values are behaving in your region is to work with a local real estate professional who can offer you the most up-to-date insights and professional advice. Contact us today for personalized service!

✅ Benefits of Contract Loan Processing for VA Loans

  1. Specialized VA Knowledge

    • VA loans have unique requirements (COE, residual income, funding fee calculations, appraisal requirements).

    • A contract processor experienced in VA loans can spot potential issues early and streamline the process.

  2. Cost Savings for Lenders

    • No need to hire full-time staff; processors are paid per file.

    • Helps smaller brokerages or lenders manage fluctuating loan volumes without carrying extra payroll.

  3. Faster Turn Times

    • Contract processors often work remotely and are paid per closed file, so they’re incentivized to move loans quickly.

    • They can push COE requests, follow up on VA appraisals, and ensure VA-specific forms (26-1880, 26-8923) are completed on time.

  4. Compliance & Accuracy

    • VA has strict guidelines (e.g., allowable fees, seller concessions, and veteran protections).

    • A skilled processor reduces risk of compliance errors that could lead to loan buybacks or funding delays.

  5. Scalability

    • During high volume seasons (e.g., rate drops, PCS military moves), lenders can bring on extra processors quickly without long-term HR commitments.

  6. Reduced Loan Officer Burden

    • Lets LOs focus on originating, networking, and serving clients while the processor handles gathering DD-214s, income docs, pest inspection reports (if required), and underwriting conditions.

  7. Improved Borrower Experience

    • Veterans and active-duty borrowers often value clear communication and speed.

    • A processor who knows the VA process can anticipate documentation needs and prevent last-minute surprises.


👉 In short: Contract processors help lenders stay lean, compliant, and efficient, while ensuring veterans have a smoother experience.