Should You Buy a House in 2025? Barbara Corcoran Says Yes—Here’s Why

by Marina Golovatii

Mortgage rates are still high. Prices keep climbing. And the Fed isn’t handing out discounts.

If you're wondering "Should I buy a house now?", you're not alone. But according to real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran, uncertain markets are exactly when savvy buyers strike.

Corcoran, who turned $1,000 into a multimillion-dollar real estate empire, recently told Realtor.com:

“When things are uncertain, buyers hesitate before committing to a new home. They might be worried about the stock market, politics, or interest rates, but when they worry, they hesitate to move. That makes uncertain markets the best time to buy!”

In other words? While most buyers freeze, the smart ones take action.

Here's how to recognize three signs Corcoran says show it's time to stop waiting and start house hunting—especially in markets like Vancouver, WA, where inventory is shifting fast.

1. You Can Buy Below Market Value

Everyone wants a good deal. In real estate, those deals appear when most people are sitting on the sidelines.

According to Realtor.com's April 2025 Housing Report:

Inventory is up 30.6% year-over-year—the highest since the pandemic.
Pending sales are down 3.2%, which means homes are sitting longer.
Sellers are more open to negotiations or price cuts.

Translation? It’s a buyer’s window.

Corcoran says:

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

This isn’t about perfectly timing the bottom. It’s about recognizing when the power shifts to you.

2. Sellers Are Returning to the Table

In hot markets, sellers have the upper hand. But now?

“I’m happy to report that sellers who turned me away four months ago are calling me back,” says Corcoran.

When homes don’t sell quickly, sellers get more flexible. That could mean:

Willingness to cover closing costs
Flexibility on move-in dates
Room to negotiate price or request credits

This gives buyers room to breathe and negotiate deals that actually work.

Corcoran’s tip: Don’t wait for a second invitation. If you love a home, reach out. The worst they can say is no—and even that can change in a few weeks.

3. The Market Feels "Spooky"

If everything feels a little uncertain right now, that’s your cue.

Corcoran says:

“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.”

Markets with political tension, high rates, and confusing headlines make most buyers freeze. But historically, that’s when deals hide in plain sight.

She adds:

“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!”

Even if you feel like you're paying more now, Corcoran reminds us:

“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!”

What This Means for Buyers in Vancouver, WA

In Vancouver, WA, inventory has grown significantly this year. More homes on the market means more leverage for buyers.

If you’re planning to stay in your home for 5-10 years, today’s market may present the best opportunity you’ll see for a while.

Even if you pay a little more up front, you could gain long-term equity as values rise. Historically, Vancouver real estate has appreciated over 6% annually over the last decade.