Is now the right time to sell your home in Rhode Island, or should you wait until interest rates drop?

That question is top of mind for many Rhode Island homeowners in 2025—and it’s one we hear almost daily from sellers in Warwick, East Greenwich, Cranston, Coventry, North Kingstown, and Providence. So, let’s unpack the reality: Is holding off until rates fall a smart move? Or is it a costly mistake?

Why Homeowners Are Tempted to Wait for Lower Rates

There’s a powerful logic behind waiting to sell:

• Higher mortgage rates = fewer buyers, right?

• If rates fall, demand should rise, meaning more competition and potentially higher offers.

• Many buyers are sitting on the sidelines, waiting for rates to drop before jumping back in.

But here’s the thing: you’re not selling a mortgage—you’re selling a home.

The Market Doesn’t Wait. Why Should You?

Waiting for rates to drop means trying to time the market—something even economists get wrong.

• Rates may not drop significantly anytime soon. Federal Reserve policies are data-driven, and with inflation still sticky, we’re likely in for modest adjustments rather than dramatic rate cuts.

• When rates do drop? You’ll have more competition. Other sellers will list. Inventory will rise. You’ll be one of many.

That competition can erode the pricing power you might have right now.

Rhode Island Sellers Still Have Leverage in 2025

Despite higher rates, the Rhode Island real estate market remains resilient:

• Inventory across Warwick and Central RI is still tight.

• Demand is steady—many buyers are relocating for lifestyle reasons, not just rates.

• Homes priced right are still selling quickly and often with multiple offers.

Nick Slocum or one of the Slocum Home Team’s top agents can share real-time market data showing that well-prepped homes are moving fast—sometimes in days.

What Rising Buyer Demand Really Means

If you wait until rates drop:

• You’ll face more buyer demand—but also more seller competition.

• Buyers will have more choices. You may lose your advantage.

• You’ll compete on price, condition, and terms.

Selling in today’s low-inventory environment gives you more control over your sale price, timeline, and terms.

Real Costs of Waiting

There’s more at stake than just price:

• Monthly carrying costs add up. Every month you wait, you’re spending on taxes, insurance, utilities, and upkeep.

• Home values may not rise fast enough to offset those expenses.

• Opportunity cost: If you’re buying next, you might miss your window to negotiate favorably or lock in your next home before prices rise again.

What’s Your Real Goal?

It all comes down to your personal situation:

• Are you upsizing, downsizing, relocating, or simplifying?

• Are you ready to unlock the equity you’ve built?

• Is waiting adding clarity—or just prolonging uncertainty?

Most homeowners aren’t trying to time the top. They’re trying to make a smart move—and smart moves happen when you’re working with the right guidance.

Here’s What We Recommend:

• Have a strategy conversation first. At Slocum Home Team, we walk sellers through the market conditions, timing, and buyer behavior trends before you make a decision.

• Get a professional pricing analysis. Know what your home is worth today—not what it might be worth in six months.

• Decide based on your life—not headlines. The media doesn’t know your goals. We do.

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking about selling, don’t let interest rates be the only factor driving your decision. Let us help you weigh your unique situation—and give you real data, not just hot takes.

The Slocum Home Team has been helping Warwick and Central Rhode Island homeowners navigate the market for 76 years. We know when to go, how to price, and how to help you win.

Ready to talk strategy? Reach out to Nick Slocum or one of The Slocum Home Team’s top agents today. We’ll help you decide if now’s the right time—and what to do next.