Remember, buying a home is about the big picture. Whether you’re planning to stay five years or more, the right data makes all the difference.

Download the Made 4 More app for trustworthy listings that help you build equity over time—without the hidden fees or the hassle.

Start your journey today!

If you’ve been glued to the headlines about home prices dipping, it’s easy to feel anxious. But before you assume the sky is falling, let’s zoom out and look at the big picture. Spoiler alert: owning a home is still one of the smartest long-term moves you can make.

Home Prices Have a History of Going Up

Sure, everyone remembers the Great Recession, when prices took a major dive. But here’s the thing—those years were the exception, not the rule. Historically, home values almost always rise over time.

Think about it like this: the market moves in waves. There are moments when prices cool off, but over the long haul, those waves build into something steady. In fact, if you look at the past few decades, the average annual increase in home values is nearly 4.9%. That’s a pretty solid trend line heading up and to the right.

Long-Term Gains Crush Short-Term Dips

Let’s put some numbers behind this.

Since 2018, U.S. home prices have jumped nearly 48%. Some cities have seen even bigger gains—like Austin (+67%), Tampa (+66%), and Phoenix (+65%).

Sure, the past year has been a little bumpy. Austin, for example, is down about 10% year-over-year. But zoom out just five years, and you’ll see those same homes are still way up in value.

That’s why seasoned homeowners don’t panic over short-term fluctuations. Over time, those small dips get smoothed out by steady appreciation.

What Exactly Is the 5-Year Rule?

You’ve probably heard of the “5-Year Rule” in real estate. In simple terms, it means this:

If you plan to own your home for at least five years, you can usually ride out any short-term price drops.

Think of it like planting a tree. If you stare at it every day, you’ll stress over every falling leaf. But if you give it time, you’ll look back and see how much it’s grown.

That’s why buying a home isn’t just a transaction—it’s a long-term investment that can build wealth and stability, even if the headlines feel scary right now.

The Bottom Line

When you hear chatter about prices dipping, remember: real estate rewards patience. If you plan to stay put for at least five years, you’re likely to come out ahead.

Not sure what’s happening in your neighborhood? Or wondering if now’s the right time to make a move? 

Call or text us at 855-935-MORE. Let’s talk through your goals and create a strategy that feels right for you.