Not Sure If You’re Ready To Buy a Home? Ask Yourself These 5 Questions

I talk to a lot of people who are on the fence about buying a home. They’re watching rates, hearing market headlines, and trying to figure out if now is the “right” time. And honestly? It can feel overwhelming.

But here’s what I always tell my clients: The market matters — but your personal situation matters even more.

Instead of trying to perfectly time the market (which almost no one can do), it’s better to look at what you can control. If you’re wondering whether you might be ready to buy in the next year, these five questions are a great place to start.

1. Do you have a stable job?

Buying a home is a big commitment, and your lender will want to see consistent income. But beyond what the lender needs, this is about your own peace of mind.

If you feel confident in your job or career path and your income is steady, that’s a strong foundation for homeownership.

2. Do you know what you can comfortably afford? This is where a lot of people guess — and that’s risky. What you qualify for and what you feel comfortable paying each month aren’t always the same.

This is why I always recommend talking to a trusted local lender early. Getting pre-approved gives you clarity on:

• Your price range
• Estimated monthly payment
• Closing costs
• What adjustments could improve your buying power

Once you know your real numbers, everything starts to feel more manageable.

3. Do you have an emergency cushion?

Owning a home comes with responsibility. Things break. Life happens.

Ideally, you want a financial buffer that can cover a few months of expenses — including your mortgage — just in case. That safety net makes homeownership feel empowering, not stressful.

4. How long do you plan to stay? This one is huge. Buying a home comes with upfront costs, and equity takes time to build.

In general, staying in a home around 5 years is a comfortable timeline. If the market performs well, even 3 years can work. But if you already know you’ll move in a year or two, buying might not be the best move right now.

Think about your career, family plans, and lifestyle over the next several years.

5. Do you have the right team helping you?

You don’t have to figure this out alone. The right agent and lender help you make smart, informed decisions — not pressured ones.

My job isn’t to push you into a house. It’s to help you:

• Understand your options
• Run real numbers
• Create a plan that fits your life

Sometimes that plan means buying soon. Sometimes it means preparing for 6–12 months. Both are wins if they’re intentional.

The Bottom Line

Buying a home isn’t just about rates or headlines — it’s about whether you are ready.

If you’ve been wondering where you stand, I’m always happy to have a low-pressure conversation and help you sort through it. No commitment, just clarity.

— Joshua Mills Mills Real Estate Group | Fort Worth