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Feeling Spooked by Market Headlines? Let’s Clear the Air.

Lately, the media’s been buzzing about home prices “cooling” or “dipping.” And if you’re a real estate agent, you’ve probably had clients nervously asking, “Is now still a good time to buy or sell?” Fair question—but here’s the truth that gets lost in the noise: real estate is a long game, and the five-year rule is your secret weapon.

The Five-Year Rule: Real Estate’s Reality Check

Ever heard of the five-year rule? It’s simple: if a buyer plans to own a home for at least five years, short-term price fluctuations don’t really matter. Why? Because home values almost always go up over time.

Even if there’s a slight dip one year, history shows that prices rebound—and then some. The 2008 crash? That was a unicorn moment caused by loose lending, zero equity, and an oversupply of homes. Today’s market is an entirely different animal.

As ResiClub’s Lance Lambert puts it, “Most buyers can buffer themselves from mild short-term declines if they plan to own a property for at least five years.” Boom.

Use This Rule to Build Client Confidence

If you’re trying to earn trust and win more listings or buyers, here’s your play: educate them on the five-year rule. Buyers don’t need to time the market perfectly. They need to understand the power of time in the market.

Sure, some cities have seen prices cool slightly—down around 2.9% since April 2024—but that’s peanuts when you realize that home values have soared over 55% nationally over the past five years. That kind of long-term growth wipes out any short-term jitters.

Proof’s in the Numbers (And the Map)

Get this: every U.S. state has seen home prices rise over the past five years, according to FHFA data. So, even if your market’s had a recent dip, most homeowners are sitting on solid equity. That’s the kind of data that changes a client’s entire perspective—and yours too, if you’re building your career in real estate.

Want to Thrive as an Agent? Lean Into the Long Game.

If you’re serious about making a name for yourself in real estate, don’t chase headlines—chase long-term value. Use market education to set yourself apart, reassure your clients, and become the go-to expert in your area. When you help people zoom out and take the five-year view, you’re not just a salesperson—you’re a strategist.

Short-term dips aren’t doomsday signals—they’re noise. The five-year rule reminds us that real estate rewards patience, not panic. If you’re ready to build a business (and a client base) that thrives no matter the headlines, this is your moment.

Ready to build a career that lasts longer than the news cycle? Call or text us at 855-935-MORE and let’s talk about how we can help you grow.