If you’ve been thinking about buying a home—or already have—and you’ve read recent headlines calling “Marry the House, Date the Rate” bad advice, you’re not alone. It’s become a popular talking point to criticize this approach and I’m definitely not a fan of the saying. But let’s look at why this strategy has actually helped many buyers and homeowners build wealth and lower their payments over time.
What Does “Marry the House, Date the Rate” Really Mean?
This phrase simply means:
- Buy the home you love when you find it, because the right property isn’t always available tomorrow.
- Understand that your interest rate isn’t forever. Mortgage rates are cyclical, and opportunities to refinance almost always come around again.
This doesn’t mean jumping into a mortgage you can’t afford. In fact, the most important part is making sure your payment fits comfortably within your budget today. But it also means you don’t have to wait for “perfect” rates to start building equity and stability.
Rates Change—A Lot More Often Than You Think
Over the past 2 years alone, the 10-Year Treasury Yield—which strongly influences mortgage rates—has dipped below 3.8% enough times to create at least 7 windows where refinancing saved homeowners significant money.
That’s not theory—it’s reality. Here are a few examples of how real people improved their loans when the market gave them the chance:
✅ A client who purchased with a 6.625% FHA loan was able to refinance down to 5%, reducing their monthly payment by almost $900.
✅ Another family refinanced their 6.5% Conventional loan to 5.375%, saving just under $300 per month.
✅ A veteran homeowner refinanced a VA loan from 8.25% to 6.625%, saving nearly $300 per month.
These examples highlight the power of acting when the time is right and working with a loan officer who watches the market on your behalf.
Why Waiting for the Perfect Rate Can Cost You
While you’re waiting for rates to magically drop to where they were in 2020 or 2021, home prices are often rising—and so are rents. Over the past few years, many people who stayed on the sidelines hoping for a return to historically low rates ended up paying more for the same home.
Remember: the right home is an investment in your future. Even if rates stay higher for longer, the equity you build and the stability you gain can be worth it. And when the market shifts, you’ll already be positioned to take advantage of a lower rate.
Affordability First, Opportunity Next
It’s important to repeat: This strategy only works if you can comfortably afford your payment today. A smart home purchase isn’t about stretching beyond your means—it’s about locking in a property you love, with a payment you can handle, and staying ready to improve that payment down the road.
Let’s Make a Plan Together
If you’re thinking about buying or wondering if refinancing makes sense, let’s talk. As your mortgage advisor, I can help you:
✅ Assess whether a home fits your budget today
✅ Create a clear plan for refinancing if and when rates improve
✅ Understand the true costs and benefits of each option
You deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a strategy—and a professional on your side to execute it when the timing is right.
Ready to explore your options?
Reach out any time at 720-250-7764 or nick.ross@edgehomefinance.com—I’m here to help you navigate the market confidently and make the best decisions for your future.
