If you've been waiting for mortgage rates to come down before making a move, you're not alone. Higher borrowing costs have caused many prospective buyers to hit pause, hoping for a more favorable time to purchase.
But while many people have been watching interest rates, another part of their financial picture may have been changing just as dramatically.
The stock market has experienced significant growth over the past few years. As of mid-2026, the S&P 500 has continued to reach new highs, meaning many investors have seen meaningful gains in their brokerage accounts, retirement savings, and employer-sponsored stock plans. For some households, that growth may have quietly increased their purchasing power. While market performance doesn't guarantee future results, it may be worth considering how your overall financial position has evolved. (Source: S&P Dow Jones Indices, https://www.spglobal.com/spdji)
That doesn't necessarily mean selling your investments is the right move.
It does mean it may be time to ask a different question.
Instead of focusing solely on today's mortgage rate, ask yourself whether your financial situation looks different than it did a year or two ago. Perhaps you've accumulated more savings, received company stock, earned bonuses, built equity in your current home, or watched your investment portfolio grow. All of those factors can influence what may be possible today.
Many buyers assume purchasing a home depends almost entirely on their monthly income. In reality, down payments often come from a combination of savings, investment accounts, proceeds from a previous home sale, bonuses, or other assets. For some buyers, appreciated investments can create flexibility they hadn't considered when they first began thinking about homeownership.
At the same time, Colorado's housing market has become more balanced than it was during the intense competition of 2021 and 2022. Inventory has increased in many areas across the state, giving buyers more choices, more negotiating power, and additional time to make informed decisions. While every local market is different, today's buyers often have opportunities to negotiate repairs, seller concessions, or favorable contract terms that were much harder to secure just a few years ago. (Sources: Colorado Association of REALTORS®, REcolorado Market Trends)
Of course, liquidating investments isn't a decision to make lightly. Selling appreciated assets may have tax implications, and retirement accounts often come with additional rules or penalties depending on your age and account type. That's why it's important to consult with a financial advisor or tax professional before making any decisions about your investment portfolio. (Source: Internal Revenue Service, https://www.irs.gov)
The point isn't that everyone should sell investments to buy real estate.
It's that your options may be broader than you think.
If you've been waiting for the "perfect" market, it may be worth taking another look at your finances and having a conversation with a trusted real estate professional. The combination of increased inventory, more balanced market conditions, and a stronger overall financial position could create opportunities that simply weren't available a few years ago.
Sometimes the biggest change isn't the market.
It's your buying power.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or tax advice. Consult a qualified financial advisor or tax professional before making investment decisions.
