Should You Buy Now or Wait? A Local Market Perspective

Deciding whether to buy now or wait is one of the biggest questions potential homeowners ask — and the best answer isn’t just about timing the market — it’s about aligning market conditions with your personal goals and readiness.

Here’s a local- and Philippines-focused look at the current landscape and how to think about your decision.

📈 Market Context: Philippines & Cagayan de Oro

1. The Philippine Market Shows Ongoing Activity

• National real estate continues to show demand fundamentals and long-term growth, with buyers and investors remaining active in 2026.

• Residential demand is supported by economic growth, evolving needs (e.g., work-from-home), and sustained OFW investment.

2. Cagayan de Oro’s Local Dynamics

• Cagayan de Oro remains a growing market within Northern Mindanao — with significant listings available and a variety of house-and-lot options at different price points.

• The city’s infrastructure development and strategic location continue to support property demand.

3. Price Growth & Rental Dynamics

• Nationwide residential prices have moderated compared with past rapid gains — meaning growth is slowing but not contracting sharply.

• Rental yields and residential returns remain relatively healthy, indicating a stable market foundation.

📊 Market Pros vs. Cons for Buyers

🟢 Reasons Some Buyers Choose to Buy Now

a. Solid long-term fundamentals: Real estate in the Philippines continues to attract interest from both local and foreign buyers, and key cities like CDO show ongoing activity. b. Less competition early in the year: In some markets (globally and locally) buyers early in the year can benefit from motivated sellers and softer competition, which can improve negotiations. c. Opportunity costs: Waiting too long may mean missing out on entry prices before demand strengthens again. Markets can shift unpredictably.

🔴 Reasons Some Buyers Consider Waiting

a. Price growth is slowing: While prices are stable, strong exponential rises have softened, meaning buyers may feel they aren’t “rushing into a peak.” b. Market conditions evolve: More inventory, policy reforms, or economic shifts could influence buyer advantages later in the year. c. Personal timing matters: Buying at a time that fits your finances, stability, and life plans often matters more than short-term market movements.

##💡 What Experts Often Recommend

Don’t try to time the market perfectly.Instead, focus on your readiness:✔ Do you have a stable financial foundation (down payment, emergency funds)?✔ Are your rates and payments affordable for you long-term?✔ Is your need to buy driven by necessity (move, family growth, stability)?

Industry voices note that market forecasts are helpful but not decisive — individual goals and financial preparedness matter most.

🏠 Local Buyer Strategy (Snapshot)

✔ If you’re ready and have financial clarity → Buying now can secure a property before potential renewed demand pushes prices up.

✔ If your timing is flexible and you’re waiting for specific rate or policy shifts → Monitor market conditions while preparing your finances.

✔ If the market stays stable but doesn’t rally aggressively → Purchasing when you find the right home that fits your needs is often better than waiting indefinitely.

Final Takeaway

There’s no universally “perfect” moment to buy.Real estate is cyclical and local. For cities like Cagayan de Oro — with a growing market and active listings across price segments — buyers who are financially ready and educated about local conditions can find opportunities now, while those who need more time to prepare still have reasons to watch trends and act strategically.