Why Most People Are Still Glad They Bought a Home

With everything going on, it’s understandable if you’re wondering if you’d regret buying right now. 

Everyday expenses cost more. Mortgage rates are higher than you’d like. And when the economy feels uncertain, taking on a mortgage can feel like a much bigger leap. But here’s some perspective that may help…

Most surveyed buyers said they're glad they bought.

According to a recent survey from NerdWallet, the vast majority of recent buyers (74%) were glad they bought their current home. Only 3% of surveyed buyers said they regret buying their current home:

And here’s a big reason why so many people feel it was worth it, even now.

Homeownership Is a Long-Term Play

When you’re deciding whether to buy, it’s easy to focus on what’s happening right now. What’s today’s mortgage rate? Are prices going up or down? Those things matter. But don’t get so caught up in buying in the perfect moment that you miss the bigger picture.

A home isn’t typically something you buy for just a year or two. It’s a longer-term play. And when you zoom out, it all starts to fall into perspective – especially if you look at home prices and equity.

According to data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), home prices nationally have risen 33.4% over just the past five years (see map below):

That historical home price appreciation has helped many homeowners build equity over time. Research from Bankrate shows homeowners gained an average of nearly $150,000 in wealth over the past five years as equity steadily rose across 90% of major metro areas.

That’s one of the biggest benefits of homeownership. As you pay down your mortgage and your home appreciates over time, your ownership stake – your equity – can grow.

How Home Prices Have Changed Over the Long Term

The five-year numbers are impressive. But the numbers get even more dramatic when you look at decades instead of individual market cycles.

According to data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), home prices nationally have risen 336% since 1991. Sit with that for a second. That's more than 300% (see map below).

That doesn't mean prices go up every single year. And it doesn't mean buying is automatically the right decision for everyone today. You should only buy when the numbers (and the payment) work for you.

What it does show is why trying to perfectly time the market can make you miss the bigger picture. 

Over time, homeowners may build significant equity through mortgage principal payments and potential home price appreciation, although property values can fluctuate. And that equity can eventually become a powerful financial resource. As Freddie Mac explains: 

 

“Your home's equity is part of your total wealth as a homeowner. If you decide to sell your home, the equity you have built over time will come back to you in the sale. . .

If it's time to upsize or downsize, you can use that cash for the down payment on your next home.”

 

For buyers whose finances and long-term goals support homeownership, building equity may help provide options for future moves.

And just in case you’re someone who’s worried about what happens if prices do fall, after you buy, remember: you’re not buying for one year.

Prices can dip. They have before. But historically, they’ve risen far more over the long run. And owning a home longer may give you more time to navigate market fluctuations and potentially build equity.

Bottom Line

Don’t let today’s uncertainty make you lose sight of what homeownership can do over time. Most homeowners surveyed say they’re glad they bought their current home. And decades of national home-price growth help illustrate the potential long-term benefits of owning a home, although future appreciation isn't guaranteed.

If you’re considering buying a home in North County San Diego, including Oceanside, Carlsbad, Vista, San Marcos, Escondido, or surrounding communities, understanding local housing market conditions and your financial options can help you make an informed decision.

Whether you're buying your first home, planning your next move, or exploring your options, these resources can help you get started:

Search Homes for Sale – Explore available homes in North County San Diego.

Check Your Home Value – Get an estimate of your current property's value if you're considering selling to buy another home.

View the Local Market Snapshot – Explore housing market trends and conditions in your area.

Use the Mortgage Calculator – Estimate potential monthly mortgage payments based on your inputs.

Contact Us – Get personalized real estate guidance and discuss your homebuying goals.

Wondering whether now is the right time to buy a home in North County San Diego? Let’s review the local market, explore available properties, and discuss what makes sense for your goals and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Home in North County San Diego

1. Do most homebuyers regret buying their home?

According to a 2026 NerdWallet survey, only 3% of surveyed homebuyers said they regret buying their current home, while 74% said they're glad they bought. Another 13% felt OK about their decision, and 10% had mixed feelings. These findings reflect national survey responses and may not represent every homeowner's experience.

2. Is buying a home in North County San Diego a good long-term investment?

Buying a home in North County San Diego may offer long-term benefits, including the opportunity to build equity through mortgage principal payments and potential property appreciation. However, home values can fluctuate, and appreciation isn't guaranteed. Whether buying makes financial sense depends on your budget, ownership costs, future plans, and local housing market conditions.

3. How can I decide if now is a good time to buy a home in North County San Diego?

Start by reviewing your budget, estimated mortgage payments, down payment, closing costs, property taxes, insurance, and potential maintenance expenses. Then compare available homes and local market conditions in communities such as Oceanside, Carlsbad, Vista, San Marcos, and Escondido. A local real estate agent can help you evaluate properties and market trends, while a qualified mortgage lender can explain financing options and affordability based on your financial situation.

About the Agent: Patricia Villanueva | North County San Diego Real Estate Agent

Patricia Villanueva is a North County San Diego real estate agent helping buyers and sellers navigate the local housing market. Serving Oceanside, Carlsbad, Vista, San Marcos, Escondido, and surrounding communities, Patricia Villanueva provides personalized guidance for buying and selling homes.

Whether you're searching for homes for sale, buying your first home, relocating, downsizing, or preparing to sell your property, Patricia Villanueva offers local market insights, comparative market analyses, property searches, and home marketing strategies tailored to your goals.

Looking for a real estate agent in North County San Diego? Contact Patricia Villanueva to discuss your homebuying or selling needs.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, mortgage, tax, legal, or investment advice. Real estate market conditions, statistics, and trends may change and vary by location. Home values and future appreciation are not guaranteed. Individual circumstances may differ. Consult qualified professionals for advice specific to your needs.