Is Now the Right Time to Buy a House? The Case for Moving Early

With prices still soft, plenty of stock on the market, and interest rates edging lower, many commentators are saying: it might actually be a good time to buy.

Here’s why.

September 15, 2025

Prices are still flat

House prices remain around 15–17% below their peak, and confidence in big price rises over the next year has dipped. In Auckland, only 14% of people expect prices to increase soon. For buyers, that means more opportunity to negotiate without the fear of rapid jumps.

Plenty of choice

Listings remain high, giving buyers a rare advantage. It’s still a buyer’s market, with more homes available than sales activity can clear. That won’t last forever, but for now, it means more options and less pressure to rush decisions.

Falling interest rates

The big driver? Lower borrowing costs. Test rates have come down significantly, and banks are more willing to lend if you meet servicing criteria. Compared to 2021, finance is once again becoming accessible.

What’s next for prices?

Economists expect this year to remain flat, with momentum picking up in 2025. The Reserve Bank is projecting stronger economic growth and lower unemployment, which typically feeds into housing demand. The psychology matters too, once buyers feel confident prices will rise, the shift to a seller’s market can happen quickly.

My take

Trying to perfectly “time” the market is tricky. Many people hold back when homes are cheaper, only to pile in when prices rise again. The truth is, if you’re buying with a 10–15 year horizon, the short-term fluctuations matter far less.

Right now, conditions line up well: softer prices, more choice, and cheaper finance. For first-home buyers, it’s a chance to secure long-term stability. For investors, it’s an opportunity to capture yield before demand turns.

The key is to buy smart: focus on quality locations, sustainable designs, and homes that fit the way people actually live. That’s why townhouse developments, modern, efficient, and in demand, are proving to be one of the strongest plays in today’s market.

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