Why More Sellers Are Moving, Even with Higher Mortgage Rates
If you’ve been holding off on selling your home because you don’t want to give up a low mortgage rate, you’re not alone. Many homeowners in Williamsburg—and across the country—have felt stuck in place, reluctant to trade in a 3% rate for something closer to 7%.
But lately, more and more people are making the move anyway. Why? Because life has changed—and the needs of daily living are starting to outweigh the numbers on paper.
People Aren’t Just Moving for Financial Reasons
According to a recent Realtor.com survey, nearly 80% of homeowners thinking about selling say they’re doing it out of necessity. And most of those reasons have nothing to do with money.
Here are some of the most common motivations we’re seeing from sellers in our area:
They need more space – Whether it’s a growing family, grandkids, or multi-generational living, the square footage that used to work just doesn’t anymore.
They need less space – The kids are out, the stairs are harder to manage, or it’s simply time to downsize and simplify.
They want to be closer to family – After years of long-distance holidays or caregiving from afar, being nearby just matters more now.
They’ve had a life change – A new relationship, a divorce, or a job shift can make staying in the same home feel more like holding on than moving forward.
They’re relocating – Job offers, new beginnings, or the pull of a dream location—sometimes it’s just time to go.
These aren’t just hypothetical situations—they’re the very real stories I hear from clients every week. And they’re why many people in Williamsburg are making a move, even if it means stepping into a higher rate.
Rates Matter, But So Does Quality of Life
Yes, mortgage rates are higher than they were a few years ago—and no, they’re not expected to drop back into the 3% range anytime soon. But rates are only one piece of the puzzle.
If your current home no longer fits your life, waiting for a perfect rate may just mean more time spent in a space that no longer serves you.
In fact, Realtor.com found that nearly two-thirds of homeowners who are thinking about selling have been doing so for over a year. If that sounds familiar, ask yourself: how long do you want to wait?
The Right Move, Right Now
The home that worked beautifully in 2020 might not be the right fit for your life in 2025—and that’s okay. Sometimes, making the right move means prioritizing your lifestyle, health, and happiness over the lowest possible interest rate.
If you’ve been thinking about making a move—whether it’s downsizing, upsizing, or relocating—let’s talk about what’s next. We’ll look at your options, run the numbers, and map out a plan that’s right for you.
Because the best home for you isn’t always the one with the lowest rate—it’s the one that fits the life you’re living now.
