Why More Homeowners Are Moving, Even With Today’s High Mortgage Rates
July 18, 2025
Joe Malerba
Let’s be honest… letting go of a 3% mortgage rate isn’t easy. It’s one of the top reasons many homeowners have stayed put over the past few years. But here’s the reality: life moves on, even if mortgage rates are higher.
You might love your current interest rate, but is it really worth staying in a home that no longer fits your needs? Whether it’s a growing family, aging knees that dread the stairs, or the emotional weight of being far from loved ones, real-life priorities are outweighing financial hesitation and more sellers are finally making a move.
The Shift Is Real: More Sellers Are Letting Go of Low Rates
Recent data shows the number of homeowners with sub-3% mortgage rates is slowly declining. At the same time, the share of homeowners taking on 6%+ rates is on the rise. Why? Because life is changing and so are their housing needs.
Top Reasons People Are Selling Right Now (And They're Not Financial)
A survey by Realtor.com reveals that 79% of homeowners considering a move today are doing so out of necessity, not financial strategy. Here are the most common life changes prompting people to sell, even with today’s interest rates:
You Need More Space: Maybe there’s a new baby on the way, teenagers who want their own rooms, or aging parents moving in. Whatever the reason, outgrowing your home happens fast, and staying cramped just isn’t practical.
You Need Less Space: If your kids have moved out and you’re looking to simplify, downsizing can mean freedom, fewer rooms to clean, lower utility bills, and a lifestyle with less upkeep.
You Want to Be Closer to Family: Whether you want to help with grandkids or care for elderly parents, being near the people who matter most often outweighs the numbers on paper.
A Relationship in Your Life Has Changed: Divorce, separation, marriage, or moving in together. Relationship changes often create the need for a fresh start, and a new place to call home.
Your Job Is Taking You Somewhere New: Whether you’re chasing a dream job or moving for your partner’s career, sometimes your next opportunity means a new city and a new home.
What About Waiting for Mortgage Rates to Drop?
Many homeowners are hoping mortgage rates will return to 3%. But most expert forecasts show only gradual declines throughout the year. If you’ve been waiting for that magic number, it may not come anytime soon.
Meanwhile, you're living in a home that no longer works for your life.
According to Realtor.com, nearly two out of three sellers have been thinking about moving for over a year. If that’s you, ask yourself:
How much longer are you willing to press pause on your life?
Your Life Has Changed. Maybe Your Home
The house that worked for you in 2020 might not make sense in 2025. That “for now” home may be holding you back more than you realize and that’s perfectly normal.
Yes, mortgage rates are part of the decision but they’re not the only factor. The bigger question is:
What kind of home do you need to support the life you’re living today?
Ready to Make a Move?
If you're wondering whether now is the right time to sell, let’s talk. I’ll help you explore your options, weigh the pros and cons, and find the move that supports the next chapter of your life, not just your mortgage rate.