\Why Now Might Be the Smartest Time to Buy a Home in Boise

If you’re a buyer glued to Zillow and waiting for the "perfect time"—this is your wake-up call. Summer is heating up, interest rates are shifting, and opportunity is in the air. Michael Miller is back with your July market update, and he’s got some real talk for Treasure Valley house hunters.

Interest Rates Are Slowly Cooling Down

Let’s start with what everyone’s watching: interest rates. After months of uncertainty, we’re beginning to see signs of improvement. The Federal Reserve hasn’t dropped rates yet in 2025, but the forecast for the rest of the year—and into 2026—is optimistic. The CME FedWatch Tool shows a growing probability of federal fund rate cuts ranging from 25 to 75 basis points by December. While these don’t directly dictate mortgage rates, they are a strong indicator that we could soon see a dip into the low 6% or even high 5% range.

Projections even stretch into mid-2026, with the possibility of mortgage rates landing in the low 5s. That kind of affordability shift is a game changer, especially for first-time buyers. But the market hasn’t caught up yet—most buyers are still on the sidelines, enjoying their summer adventures and waiting for that magic number.

Inventory Is Up, Buyers Are Out—A Recipe for Opportunity

Now, let’s talk supply and demand. Inventory remains steady, but buyer activity is tapering off for the summer, which is typical for July and August. With fewer people in the market, we’re seeing about 20% of listed homes drop their prices each week.

That means sellers are motivated, and buyers—if you’re ready—can negotiate stronger deals and even concessions. The key is to shop smart now, lock in a good price, and refinance later if rates continue to fall. This strategy gives buyers a rare advantage in a market that could become more competitive by next spring.

Idaho's Economy Remains Rock Solid

Still hesitant? Michael reminds us to zoom in on local economic data. Idaho leads the nation in both job and wage growth—not just since the pandemic, but even in the last 12 months (April 2024 to April 2025). The state’s strong economic momentum continues to attract professionals, support household incomes, and provide a stable foundation for housing demand.

So, if you’ve been waiting for some magic signal that it’s time to buy, this might be it. The market is quietly tipping in favor of savvy buyers, and Idaho’s economic indicators remain strong. Whether you're looking in Boise, Meridian, or anywhere in the Treasure Valley, now is the time to start shopping before everyone else jumps back in.

Final Thoughts (And a Bit of Fun)

Michael wraps things up with a bit of humor (and a challenge). He’s staying steady with market updates on YouTube—but open to spicing things up. Wigs? Costume changes? You name it. But more importantly, he wants you off your boat, out of your hammock, and into his car to find the right house.

Let’s go shopping.