Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
By Brendan B. Grady, Senior Broker – Coldwell Banker Realty
Many homeowners across Greater Hartford — particularly in West Hartford, Wethersfield, Newington, Farmington, Avon, Simsbury, Bloomfield, Windsor, South Windsor, East Hartford, Rocky Hill, Berlin, and Plainville — tell me they feel stuck. They’re sitting on historically low mortgage rates and worry that selling their current home would mean giving that up. This concern is often referred to as being “rate locked” or wearing the so-called golden handcuffs.
It’s a very real issue, and one I discuss daily with homeowners.
There’s no question that higher interest rates affect monthly payments. But rates are only one piece of a much bigger picture. Over my decades advising buyers and sellers throughout central Connecticut, I’ve found that the right decision almost always comes down to a combination of factors: lifestyle needs, family changes, equity growth, long-term financial goals, tax considerations, commute patterns, and how long someone plans to stay in their next home.
For some homeowners, staying put truly makes sense. For others, the benefits of moving — more space, a better location, less maintenance, or a home that fits the next chapter of life — outweigh the cost of a higher rate. Every situation is different, which is why a one-size-fits-all answer doesn’t work.
For buyers, interest rates will always fluctuate. What matters most is buying the right home at the right value, in a town and neighborhood that fits your needs and long-term plans. Many buyers also take comfort in knowing that refinancing may be an option down the road if rates improve — but the opportunity to buy the right home doesn’t always come twice.
If interest rates are the one thing holding you back, I’d encourage you to talk it through rather than guess. I genuinely enjoy these conversations and am always happy to help buyers and sellers think through their options — even if you’re months or years away from making a move.
You’re welcome to call or text me at +1 (860) 729-8800, or email me at brendan.grady@cbmoves.com. Whether you have a quick question or want to explore scenarios in more detail, I’m glad to help. Sometimes a short, friendly conversation brings clarity — and peace of mind.
