Should I buy a home now or wait until 2026 in Maryland?

If you're considering whether to buy a home in Maryland now or wait until 2026, the best answer depends on your personal financial goals, lifestyle needs, and how long you plan to stay in the home. However, current trends suggest that buying now may offer more advantages than waiting, especially in competitive Maryland markets where prices and interest rates may continue to shift.

Understanding the Current Maryland Housing Market

If you're trying to decide whether to buy a home in Maryland now or wait until 2026, you're not alone. With interest rates, home prices, and economic headlines in flux, it’s easy to feel uncertain. As of fall 2025, the Maryland real estate market has begun to show signs of seasonal slowing, but demand remains strong in key areas like Baltimore, Columbia, Annapolis, and Towson.

According to Bright MLS, Maryland’s median home price is hovering around $400,000—up 3.2% year-over-year. Inventory remains tight, especially for homes priced under $500K, and the average days on market sits around 28 days in many urban and suburban zip codes. If you're planning to buy a home in Maryland, timing the market perfectly is nearly impossible—but making an informed choice based on your goals is very doable.

Why You Might Want to Buy a Home Now in Maryland

Here are a few reasons why buying sooner rather than later could make sense:

- Stabilizing Interest Rates: While rates aren’t as low as they were in 2021, they’ve begun to stabilize. Buying now means you can refinance later if rates drop, but still start building equity today.

- Home Prices Keep Rising: Maryland's prices are projected to rise modestly through 2026. Waiting could mean paying more later for the same home.

- Build Equity Sooner: Every month you pay rent, that money is gone. Buying now helps you build long-term wealth through equity.

- Better Negotiation Power in Fall/Winter: Fall and winter typically mean fewer buyers, which could give you more leverage with motivated sellers.

Why You Might Wait to Buy a Home in Maryland

Of course, there are also reasons you might wait:

- You Need More Time to Save: If you're working on boosting your credit score, saving for a down payment, or paying off debt, it may be worth waiting.

- Potential Rate Drops: If the Federal Reserve cuts rates in 2025–2026 as expected, you might see slightly better monthly payments later.

- More Inventory Expected: As builders complete new construction projects and sellers re-enter the market, we may see more options in the next year or two.

Key Maryland Real Estate Trends Heading Into 2026

- Home Prices: Expect continued appreciation in the 2–4% range annually across most Maryland counties.

- Inventory: Supply is still constrained in affordable price points but increasing slightly in higher-end markets.

- Buyer Demand: Millennials and Gen Z buyers are driving demand in suburban hubs like Ellicott City, Crofton, and Perry Hall.

- Mortgage Trends: Adjustable-rate mortgages and buydown incentives are gaining popularity among Maryland buyers trying to manage affordability.

Michael Frank’s Advice on When to Buy a Home in Maryland

Michael Frank, Team Leader of Frank Oliver Collective at eXp Realty, believes that timing the market is less important than understanding your personal timing. 'If you’re financially ready, have job stability, and plan to stay in the home for at least 3–5 years, there’s no reason to wait,' he says.

His team consistently helps buyers explore grant programs, negotiate closing costs, and compare creative financing options so clients can buy smart—even in a tricky market. Whether you’re eyeing a charming rowhome in Hampden or a turnkey townhome in Bowie, Michael Frank’s team will make sure you understand your options.

Should You Buy or Wait? A Quick Checklist

Consider buying now if:

- You’re financially stable and pre-approved.

- You plan to stay in the home for 3+ years.

- You’ve found a property that fits your needs.

- You’re open to refinancing in the future.

Consider waiting if:

- Your credit or savings needs improvement.

- You’re unsure about your long-term plans.

- You’re hoping to take advantage of future grant or loan programs.

The Bottom Line

Whether you decide to buy a home now or wait until 2026, having a clear plan—and the right local expert—makes all the difference. The Maryland real estate market continues to offer great opportunities for buyers who are prepared and strategic. Connect with Michael Frank and the Frank Oliver Collective at eXp Realty for personalized advice tailored to your goals and timeline.