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

If you’re a homeowner in Middlesex County, you might be feeling a bit stuck lately. Perhaps you’ve considered moving—whether it’s for more space, a change of scenery, or finally finding that perfect home that feels just right. But then, the reality of today’s mortgage rates hits, and suddenly, that thought gets pushed aside.

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

This phenomenon is often referred to as the “lock-in effect,” and it can be quite powerful. However, it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. If you’ve been on the fence, unsure whether to stay or go, consider these three questions to help clarify your situation and make a decision you can feel good about.

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

This is perhaps the most crucial question to ask yourself. When you look beyond the mortgage rate and the numbers, does your home still support your daily 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 may have shifted—maybe you’re working from home more, caring for aging parents, or have welcomed a new family member. Or maybe you’ve just outgrown the space emotionally. What used to feel like a dream home now feels more like a never-ending to-do list.

It’s easy to set those feelings aside and focus solely on your current mortgage rate. But when your home no longer meets your lifestyle needs, 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 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 that moving isn’t a financially viable option. What matters is how the entire picture looks for you.

Many homeowners today are sitting on significant levels of equity. As of early 2024, the average mortgage-holding homeowner in the U.S. has 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 notable rise from $182,000 at the beginning of the pandemic, based on CoreLogic’s Homeowner Equity Insights report.

This could reduce the amount you need to borrow, lower your monthly payment, or even help you avoid private mortgage insurance.

On the flip side, consider the lifestyle benefits that a move could bring. Perhaps it would bring you closer to family, provide your kids with access to better schools, or offer that home office or outdoor space you’ve been dreaming of. Maybe it means downsizing and freeing up cash each month or finally settling in a neighborhood where you feel a stronger sense of belonging.

Moving isn’t just a financial decision; it’s also about quality of life. When you weigh both the potential 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 put. In fact, for some people, that’s the best choice. But 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 changes or investments would I need to make to ensure this home truly works for me? Would I remodel the kitchen that’s become less 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.

However, staying without a plan can lead to years of frustration. Often, those quiet 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 deserves careful 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 find clarity. Whether you choose to stay or go, the goal isn’t to perfectly time the market. It’s about making a decision that supports your life and future.

If you’re uncertain about what to do next, let’s chat. We can help you weigh the pros and cons, look at real numbers, and explore your options. Our aim isn’t to pressure you into a sale but to provide the clarity and confidence you need to move forward in the direction that feels right for you.