Stuck Between Moving and Staying? These 3 Questions Can Help You Decide

If you’re a homeowner in LA & Ventura County with a low mortgage rate, you might be feeling a bit stuck these days. Perhaps you’ve considered making a move—whether that’s finding a larger space, relocating to a different neighborhood, or finally securing a home that feels just right. But then, the reality of current interest rates hits, and suddenly, the idea gets shelved.

This scenario is playing out for many homeowners across the country. Millions locked in at historically low rates during 2020 or 2021 are now hesitant to let go of what seems like an unbeatable deal—even if their current home no longer fits their lifestyle.

This phenomenon is known as the “lock-in effect,” and it’s a significant factor in today’s housing market. But don’t worry, you still have options. If you’ve been on the fence about whether to stay or go, there are three questions to consider that can help clarify your situation and lead to a decision you feel good about.

Is your current home still working for your life—or just your loan?

This is a crucial question to ponder. When you look past the interest rate and the spreadsheets, is your home still supporting your day-to-day life?

Maybe what once felt spacious now feels cramped, or perhaps your home feels too large and quiet since the kids moved out. Your needs might have shifted—maybe you’re working from home more often, caring for aging parents, or have welcomed a new family member. Or perhaps you’ve simply outgrown your space emotionally. What once felt like a dream home now feels more like a never-ending to-do list.

It’s easy to push those feelings aside and focus solely on your current rate. But when your home no longer aligns with your lifestyle, it’s worth considering what it’s costing you to stay—not just financially, but also emotionally and mentally. The right home doesn’t need to be perfect, but it should make your daily life easier, not more complicated.

What would a move really cost you—and what might it make possible?

There’s no denying that today’s interest rates are higher than they were a few years ago. However, that doesn’t automatically mean moving isn’t a viable option. What’s essential is how the entire picture looks for you.

Many homeowners today are sitting on substantial levels of equity. As of early 2024, the average mortgage-holding homeowner in the U.S. holds approximately $299,000 in equity, according to ICE’s Mortgage Monitor report. That’s an increase from $274,000 at the end of 2022 and a significant rise from $182,000 at the beginning of the pandemic, based on CoreLogic’s Homeowner Equity Insights report.

This means many homeowners in our area have built substantial equity that could serve as a down payment on a new home, reduce the amount needed to borrow, or help avoid private mortgage insurance.

On the flip side, consider what lifestyle benefits a move could bring. Perhaps it would bring you closer to family, provide your kids with access to better schools, or offer the home office or outdoor space you’ve been longing for. Maybe it means downsizing and freeing up more money each month or finally settling in a neighborhood that feels like home.

Moving isn’t just a financial decision; it’s also about enhancing your quality of life. When you weigh both the potential gains and costs, you might find that the numbers aren’t as lopsided as they initially seem.

If you stay, are you staying intentionally—or just avoiding a hard choice?

It’s perfectly fine to stay where you are. In fact, for some, that’s the best choice. But it’s essential that this decision is made consciously, not just as a default option.

Ask yourself: If I choose to stay for the next three to five years, what changes or investments would I need to make for this home to truly work for me? Would I renovate the kitchen that’s no longer functional? Convert the spare room into a proper office? Redesign the backyard to make it more usable?

Staying doesn’t have to mean settling. Sometimes, coming to terms with your current home involves planning improvements—whether through small updates, strategic renovations, or simply adjusting how you use your space.

However, staying without a plan can lead to years of quiet frustration. In many cases, those small compromises can add up to something more costly than moving would have been.

Final Thoughts

Feeling “stuck” can be incredibly frustrating. The good news is, you’re not as trapped as you might think. You’re simply facing a decision that requires some thoughtful consideration.

You don’t need to have all the answers right now. But by asking the right questions—about your lifestyle, your goals, and your finances—you can start to gain clarity. Whether you decide to stay or move, the aim isn’t to time the market perfectly. It’s about making a choice that supports your life and future.

If you’re unsure about what to do next, let’s chat. We can help you weigh the pros and cons, look at the real numbers, and explore what’s possible. This isn’t about pushing you into a sale; it’s about giving you the clarity and confidence to move forward in a way that feels right for you.