Why Barbara Corcoran Says Uncertain Markets Are the Best Time to Buy a Home
Let’s be honest—mortgage rates are still high, prices aren’t exactly dropping, and the Fed isn’t mailing out any coupons. If you’ve been feeling a little nervous about buying a home right now, you're definitely not alone.
But here’s a little pep talk from one of real estate’s fiercest voices: Barbara Corcoran (yes, the Shark Tank legend who turned $1,000 into a real estate empire) says this kind of market is where the magic happens for smart buyers.
In a recent interview with Realtor.com®, she explained that when things feel uncertain, most people freeze. But for the bold? That’s when the best opportunities appear.
“When things are uncertain, buyers hesitate before committing to a new home... That makes uncertain markets the best time to buy!”
— Barbara Corcoran
In other words: While others are sitting on the sidelines waiting for “perfect,” smart buyers are already writing offers.
So what does that mean for you? Here are three signs it might be your moment to make a move—and why Ozaukee County is actually holding some sneaky-good opportunities:
1. You Can Buy Below Market Value
Who doesn’t love a deal? When fewer buyers are actively shopping, it opens the door to snag a home below market value—and that’s the kind of investment that builds long-term wealth.
As Corcoran says:
“Anything bought below market will prove a good investment, and you’ll make money on it when you sell it later.”
Right now, that opportunity is growing in many areas—including ours.
Here in Ozaukee County:
Inventory is up by 30.6% year-over-year, giving buyers more choices than we’ve seen in years.
Pending sales are down 3.2%, which means many homes are sitting longer.
And sellers are starting to cut prices or open up to negotiation—a win for buyers ready to act.
Translation: You’ve got more homes to choose from and more leverage to negotiate on price, repairs, or closing terms. That’s a powerful position to be in.
2. Sellers Are Way More Open to Talking
Sellers who were getting multiple offers six months ago are now calling agents back saying, “Hey… is your buyer still interested?”
As homes sit on the market a little longer, many sellers are:
Covering closing costs 📝
Offering flexibility on timelines 📦
Considering credits or price reductions 💰
For you, that means you can craft an offer that actually works for your life and your budget. Corcoran’s advice? Don’t wait for a second invite. If a home catches your eye, take that first step—you never know how ready a seller might be.
3. The Market Feels “Spooky”… And That’s a Good Thing
We get it. There’s a lot of noise out there—rates, headlines, election year nerves. It’s enough to make anyone hesitate.
But Corcoran leans into the discomfort.
“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!”
If you’re planning to stay in your next home for several years, the short-term “scariness” matters a lot less than the long-term growth. Take it from Barbara:
“I’ve overpaid for almost every piece of property I’ve bought… and I don’t live to regret it!”
So… Is Ozaukee County Still a Good Place to Buy?
Absolutely. Here's why:
Average home value is now $481,849, up 4.8% over the past year
4-bedroom homes have appreciated by 15%, and 5+ bedroom homes have jumped by over 43%
Even when the national market feels uncertain, Ozaukee County continues to grow in value
Buying in a strong, stable area like this means your investment is likely to appreciate, even if the journey feels a little bumpy at first.
Bottom Line:
Waiting for interest rates to fall or prices to drop may sound smart… until you realize you’ve missed your window.
If you’re financially ready, emotionally steady, and spot a home that checks the right boxes, that’s your sign.
Uncertainty doesn’t mean “wait.”
It means “look closer.”
Because that perfect-for-you opportunity?
It might already be waiting.