"Scott, Should I Wait for Rates to Drop?" The 2026 Reality for Bradford County Sellers.
Waiting for the "perfect" moment might cost you more than you think. Here’s the reality of the current real estate market in Troy, Canton, and surrounding areas:
"Scott, should I wait for rates to drop more before I sell?"
I hear this question almost every single day. Whether I’m grabbing coffee in Troy or chatting with folks in Wyalusing, it is the number one hesitation hanging over potential home sellers in 2026.
It feels intuitive to wait, doesn't it? We've been conditioned to think that lower rates equal a better time to move.
But here is the 2026 secret that most national news outlets aren't telling you: Waiting can backfire.
There is a specific window of opportunity open right now in Bradford County, and waiting for rates to drop further might actually make your sale harder, not easier. Here is why selling now might be your best strategic move.
The "Rate Drop" Trap
The common belief is that lower interest rates bring out more buyers, driving up your price. While partially true, there is a catch.
When rates drop significantly, the floodgates open. All the other homeowners who have been nervously sitting on the sidelines suddenly rush to list their homes at the exact same time.
If you wait until rates bottom out, competition will skyrocket. Instead of being one of the few desirable homes in Troy or Athens on the market, you will be fighting for attention against dozens of others. Selling right now means you get to stand out in a balanced market where serious, qualified buyers are actively looking for quality and value.
The Bradford County Snapshot: A Marathon, Not a Sprint
Forget the chaos of 2021. That was a sprint where you could put a sign in the yard at 9:00 AM and have ten offers over asking price by noon. That market is gone, and honestly, it’s healthier that way.
The current market in Bradford County is a marathon.
Right now in areas like Troy, we are seeing a return to normalcy. Homes that are priced accurately, presented well, and professionally marketed are moving in roughly 50-60 days.
That is a healthy, sustainable pace. It gives buyers time to make serious decisions, and it gives sellers time to negotiate properly. But 60 days on market means your strategy has to be flawless from day one. You cannot afford to overprice your home and let it sit stale.
Search active listings in your town here:
You Need a Coach to Win a Marathon
If today’s market is a marathon, you need the right training and strategy to win. You can't just wing a marathon.
To cross the finish line with the best terms and the highest possible price in 2026, you need preparation.
Precise Pricing: We need to analyze the hyperlocal data—not national trends—to price your home securely in that "serious buyer" sweet spot. [Find out what your Bradford County home is worth in today’s market right here.]
Perfect Presentation: In a balanced market, condition matters. We need your property to shine online and in person so it stands head-and-shoulders above the competition.
Strategic Negotiation: When the offers come in, you need an experienced hand to ensure you aren't just getting a good price, but good terms.
Don't Wait for the Flood
Don't wait until every other seller in NEPA decides to list their house. Take advantage of the current balanced market where your well-maintained home can truly stand out.
I’m the coach that helps you prepare, strategize, and cross that finish line.
Are you ready to discuss your game plan? Contact me today and let's get started.
Written by Scott Kelsall Realtor®, Kelsall Realty LLC #ScottSellsDreams #WhatsYourDream #HowCanIHelp #NeverTooBusyForYourReferrals
