Wondering If You Should Still Buy a Home in Southern Utah Right Now? Here's What To Keep in Mind.

With economic headlines, global events, and near-constant talk about affordability, you may be wondering if now is the right time to buy a home in St. George, Hurricane, or anywhere across Washington County. It's a fair question. But here's what you need to remember.

Recent events do have some impact on the housing market, but they don't take buying off the table. You just have to approach it with the right strategy and the right team behind you.

Mortgage Rates Have Been Up Slightly

After trending down for most of 2025, mortgage rates have climbed back up over the past month or so. Experts point to geopolitical uncertainty and rising energy costs pushing inflation concerns higher. As First American Chief Economist Mark Fleming explains, those factors are driving the recent uptick.

So what does that mean for buyers looking at homes in the St. George metro, Hurricane, Washington, or Ivins? Should you wait for things to settle before you move?

The short answer: no.

Your Window Hasn't Closed

A month or so ago, when rates were just under 6%, buying felt a little more within reach. Now that rates are hovering in the mid-6s, monthly payments are slightly higher. But zoom out for a moment.

On a $500,000 loan, which is a realistic price point across much of Washington County right now, buyers today are still saving roughly $300 per month compared to buyers who purchased early last year. That's meaningful.

The recent rate increase hasn't erased the progress we've seen. Buying is still more affordable now than it was twelve months ago.

Could your payment have been a little lower a few weeks back? Sure. But timing the market perfectly is nearly impossible. What matters more is making the best decision based on where things stand today. And the best guidance anyone can give right now is this: expect some volatility, and plan for it.

Expect Rates To Move

Mortgage rates are going to keep shifting as new economic data and reports come out. You can't control global events or where rates land next week. But you can control how you prepare.

When you go into the process with a clear plan, the headlines matter a lot less than your personal situation.

If You Want or Need To Move, You Still Can

Southern Utah continues to draw buyers from across the country, and for good reason. Whether you're relocating from out of state, upsizing for a growing family, downsizing as an empty nester, or finally making the move you've been thinking about, those reasons are still just as valid today.

For buyers who decide to move forward, there are real strategies that can help. Adjustable-rate mortgages, for example, can offer a lower rate upfront. Buyer assistance programs are worth exploring too. The point is, there are options, and a knowledgeable agent and lender can help you find the right fit for your situation.

What Working With the Right Team Looks Like

At The Wright Team, we work alongside buyers every day to help them understand their options in this market. When you work with us, you'll:

  • Know exactly what your budget looks like at today's rates, so there are no surprises
  • Understand your financing options, from conventional loans to ARMs and assistance programs
  • Have a trusted local team guiding you from first showing to closing

Washington County's market moves quickly. Having experienced, local representation makes a real difference.

There's uncertainty in the market right now, but that doesn't mean you're out of options. If buying a home in Southern Utah is on your radar, let's talk about what's possible for your specific situation.

 

Ready to take the next step? Contact The Wright Team at KW Ascend today at 435.200.1955 or visit StGeorgeUtahRealty.com.