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

If you’re a homeowner in Orange County with a low mortgage rate, you might be feeling a bit stuck these days. Perhaps you’ve considered making a move—whether it’s for more space, a change in scenery, or finally finding that perfect home. But then, the reality of today’s interest rates hits, and suddenly, that idea gets pushed aside.

This scenario is playing out for many homeowners across the country. Millions locked in at historically low rates in 2020 or 2021 are now hesitant to let go of what feels like a great deal—even if their current home no longer meets their needs.

This phenomenon is known as the “lock-in effect,” and it’s a significant factor in today’s housing market. However, it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. If you’ve been on the fence, unsure whether to stay put or make a move, here are three questions that can help clarify your situation and guide you toward 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 consider. When you look beyond the mortgage rate and the financial spreadsheets, does your home still support your daily life?

Maybe what once felt spacious now seems 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 you’ve welcomed a new family member. Or perhaps you’ve simply outgrown the space emotionally. What was once your dream home now feels like a never-ending to-do list.

It’s easy to focus solely on your current rate and ignore those feelings. But when your home no longer fits 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 have to be perfect, but it should make your daily life easier, not harder.

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

There’s no denying that interest rates are higher than they were a few years ago. However, that doesn’t automatically mean moving isn’t financially feasible. The key is to look at the complete picture.

Many homeowners today are sitting on significant 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 jump from $182,000 at the beginning of the pandemic, based on CoreLogic’s Homeowner Equity Insights report.

This equity could serve as your down payment on a new home, potentially reducing the amount you need to borrow, lowering your monthly payment, or helping you avoid private mortgage insurance.

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

Moving isn’t just a financial decision; it’s also a quality-of-life decision. When you weigh both the gains and costs, you might find that the numbers aren’t as one-sided 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. For some, that’s the best choice. However, it should be a conscious decision, not just a default option.

Ask yourself: If I choose to stay for the next three to five years, what would I need to change or invest in to make this home 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, making peace with your current home involves planning improvements—whether through small updates, strategic renovations, or simply adjusting how you use your space.

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

Final Thoughts

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

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 gain clarity. Whether you decide to stay or go, the goal isn’t to time the market perfectly. It’s to make a decision that supports your life and future.

If you’re uncertain about what to do next, let’s have a conversation. We can help you weigh the pros and cons, look at real numbers, and explore your options. There’s no pressure; it’s all about giving you the clarity and confidence you need to move forward in the direction that feels right for you.