Terri Egstad’s guide to buying a home in McKinney, TX, with current market insights

Should I Buy a Home in McKinney, TX Right Now?

May 14, 20264 min read

If you’re thinking about buying a home in McKinney, you’re probably feeling a little stuck.

You’ve seen the headlines. Rates, prices, inventory… it’s a lot.
So the real question isn’t just “is it a good time?”
It’s… does it make sense for you right now?

Let’s walk through it.


What’s Going on in the McKinney Market Right Now

McKinney is still one of the most in-demand areas in North Texas. People are moving here for schools, space, and a better pace of life.

Here’s what I’m seeing on the ground:

  • Homes that are priced right are still selling

  • Buyers have more options than they did a couple years ago

  • Some sellers are more open to negotiating

  • Interest rates are higher than before, but buyers are adjusting

So no, it’s not the frenzy it used to be.
But it’s also not dead. Not even close.


When Buying Right Now Actually Makes Sense

This is where most people overcomplicate it.

Buying makes sense if your life says it’s time.

For instance:

  • You’re relocating for work

  • You need more space (or less)

  • You’re tired of renting and want stability

  • You found a home that fits your life and budget

If that’s you… waiting for the “perfect market” usually doesn’t help.

I’ve seen people wait a year hoping for better rates… but prices went up instead.
Now they’re paying more for the same house.


When It Might Make Sense to Wait

Sometimes waiting is the smart move.

I’ll tell people up front you might want to hold off if:

  • Your finances feel tight month to month

  • You’re not sure how long you’ll stay in the area

  • You haven’t saved enough for a comfortable down payment

  • You’re hoping to “flip” quickly and make a fast profit

This market rewards people who are thinking long-term.
Not a quick turn.


A Real Example From Here in McKinney

I worked with a couple recently who were on the fence.

They kept saying, “What if rates drop next year?”

This is a fair question.

But when we looked closer:

  • They were planning to stay at least 5–7 years

  • Rent in their area had already gone up twice

  • They found a home in a neighborhood they loved

They decided to move forward.

We negotiated on price, got some seller concessions, and got it under contract.

A few months later, they told me the same thing I hear a lot:

“I wish we hadn’t waiting so long or stressed about timing so much.”


Mistakes I’m Seeing Buyers Make Right Now

This part matters.

A lot of people get stuck here.

  • Waiting for headlines to feel “safe”

  • Trying to time the exact bottom of the market

  • Overanalyzing rates without looking at the full picture

  • Sitting on the sidelines too long and missing good homes

You don’t need perfect timing.
You just need a solid plan.


So… Should You Buy a Home in McKinney Right Now?

Here’s the honest answer.

If your job is stable, your finances are in a good place, and you plan to stay for a few years…

Yes! It can make a lot of sense.

But if things feel uncertain or rushed…

Then wait. And that’s okay too.

This isn’t about the market being “good” or “bad.”
It’s about whether it works for your situation.


What I’d Recommend You Do Next

If you’re even thinking about buying, do this:

  • Look at what homes are actually selling for (not just list prices)

  • Run real numbers on your monthly payment. There are online calculators that can do this or connect with a Mortgage Loan Officer.

  • Think through your timeline honestly

This alone will give you way more clarity.


FAQ

Is McKinney, TX still growing?

Yes. McKinney continues to grow steadily, with new developments, strong schools, and ongoing demand from buyers moving into the area.

Are home prices dropping in McKinney?

Some homes are adjusting, especially if they were overpriced. But well-priced homes are still holding value and selling.

Should I wait for interest rates to go down?

Maybe. But rates are only one piece of the puzzle. Prices, competition, and your timeline matter just as much.

Is McKinney a good place for first-time buyers?

It can be, especially with newer communities and a range of price points. The key is finding the right area and payment for you.


Final Thought

You don’t need to have everything figured out right now.

You just need a clear picture of your options.

If you want to talk it through without any pressure, I’m here to help.

Terri Egstad
Realtor in McKinney, Texas
469-693-3839

Back to Blog