Cost of Waiting Calculator
Historic appreciation data: 2016–2026 · Sources: FHFA, Zillow, NeighborhoodScout · City data where available; nearest metro proxy or state average otherwise
| Year | Appreciation | Equity Gained | ROI |
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| Year | Appreciation | Equity Gained | ROI |
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Assumption: This model assumes that if you buy today, you are eligible for a no lending cost refinance after 12 months into the same rate assumed to be available one year from now. This allows the comparison to isolate the true cost of waiting: higher home price, lost equity growth, and delayed principal reduction.
| Period | Buy Now + No-Cost Refi | Wait 1 Year | Buying Now Saves |
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Assumption: This model assumes that if you buy today, you are eligible for a no lending cost refinance after 12 months into the same rate assumed to be available one year from now. This allows the comparison to isolate the true cost of waiting: higher home price, lost equity growth, and delayed principal reduction.
Note: The "Wait 1 Year" scenario automatically uses the same No-Cost Refi Rate above — ensuring both buyers receive the same future rate and the comparison fairly isolates only the cost of waiting.
| Period | Buy Now + No-Cost Refi | Wait 1 Year | Buying Now Saves |
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