There’s a lot of noise in today’s housing market. Between headlines about high rates, investor activity, and whether you really need an agent, it’s easy for buyers and sellers to feel stuck or uncertain. The truth is, several common myths are holding people back from making smart real estate decisions.

Let’s break down four of the biggest misconceptions and replace them with facts that can help you move forward with confidence.

1. The Credit Score Myth That’s Holding Buyers Back

One of the most common reasons people delay buying a home is the belief that they need perfect credit to qualify. That simply isn’t true.

Many buyers successfully purchase homes with credit scores well below what they assume is required. While a higher score can help you secure better terms, plenty of loan programs are designed to help qualified buyers with moderate credit histories. In fact, recent data shows that the median credit score for buyers is strong, but the lowest 10% of buyers are still qualifying for mortgages.

The key takeaway? If you have steady income, manageable debt, and a willingness to explore your options, you may be closer to homeownership than you think. A quick conversation with a trusted lender can clarify what’s realistically possible for you.

2. Mortgage Rates Are Down — and That Matters More Than You Think

Over the past year, mortgage rates have dropped by about a full percentage point. That might not sound dramatic at first glance, but the impact on monthly payments — and long-term savings — is significant.

For example, on a $400,000 loan:

• A higher rate can mean hundreds more per month

• A lower rate can save tens of thousands of dollars over the life of a 30-year loan

Even small changes in rates can dramatically affect affordability. This is why timing, strategy, and staying informed matter. For buyers who paused during higher-rate periods, this shift may open doors that felt closed just months ago.

3. The #1 Regret Sellers Have When They Don’t Use an Agent

Selling your home on your own might seem like a way to save money — until it isn’t.

Data consistently shows that most homeowners who sell without an agent end up lowering their price at least once, and many do so multiple times. Without professional pricing strategies, market exposure, and negotiation expertise, sellers often struggle to attract qualified buyers at the right price.

Even more telling: homes listed with an agent typically sell for significantly more than those sold without one. What many sellers regret most isn’t paying a commission — it’s leaving money on the table.

4. Are Big Investors Really Buying Up All the Homes?

There’s a widespread belief that large institutional investors are dominating the housing market and pushing everyday buyers out. While investors do play a role, the data tells a very different story.

Big investors — those owning 100 or more properties — make up only a small share of total home purchases. Their activity peaked during specific market conditions and has since declined. The vast majority of home purchases are still made by individuals and families.

This means buyers aren’t competing with massive corporations as often as headlines suggest. Local market conditions, pricing, and inventory play a much bigger role than investor activity alone.

The Bottom Line

Misinformation can be just as powerful as market forces — and often more limiting. Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding what’s actually happening in today’s real estate market can help you make confident, informed decisions.

• You don’t need perfect credit to buy

• Lower rates can dramatically improve affordability

• Professional guidance often leads to better selling outcomes

• Big investors aren’t taking over the housing market

If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect” moment, it may be time to replace myths with facts — and take the next step toward your real estate goals.