Why Waiting for a 2026 Market Crash is a $16,000+ Mistake

Is waiting for a 2026 housing market crash actually a $16,000+ mistake? Most first-time home buyers are sitting on the sidelines, but the data shows that 4% appreciation on a $400,000 home means you'll pay $416,000 by this time next year. I’m breaking down why "waiting for the perfect time" is a trap and how to navigate this market like a pro.

In this video, we go beyond the basics to help you beat the competition and stop renting. You’ll learn:
💰 The 20% Down Payment Lie: Why the 1930s standard is holding you back and what the actual average is today.

📊 The 5% Rule: A mathematical formula to decide if renting or buying is actually smarter for your situation.

🛡️ Winning Offers: How to secure a property at fair market value without waiving inspections..

💰 Hidden costs of homeownership Zillow and Redfin estimates are often wrong because they leave out critical expenses. We discuss "PITI + M" (Principal, Interest, Taxes, Insurance, and Maintenance) so you aren't house poor.

📉 Choosing the right mortgage Should you get an FHA loan or a Conventional loan? We explain why FHA loans might be more expensive for buyers with credit scores over 720 and when you should look at USDA options for 0% down.

🤝 Building your team Learn the one specific question you must ask a real estate agent before hiring them to ensure they are an advisor, not just a salesperson.

Justin Braithwaite
Broker and Owner, Braithwaite Realty, LLC
📞 Tel: 917-626-2372
📧 Email: justin@braithrealty.com

CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro: Beyond the basics of home buying
00:29 Tip 1: The 20% Down Payment Myth & PMI
02:22 Tip 2: Calculating Your Real Monthly Cost (PITI + M)
03:50 Tip 3: Hacking Your Debt to Income Ratio (DTI)
05:21 Tip 4: FHA vs Conventional vs USDA Loans
07:11 Tip 5: How to Interview Your Real Estate Agent
08:30 Tip 6: How to Make a Winning Offer (Without Overpaying)
09:52 Tip 7: The 5% Rule & Rent vs Buy Math
11:20 Outro: Your 2026 Home Buying Checklist