Raise your hand if you waited to buy your car because the interest rate was amazing.

I’m guessing you probably didn’t do that. You just found a car within your price range and bought it.

Why? Not because you were being irresponsible, but because you needed something to drive. Unless you live in a major city with an excellent public transportation system, a car is a modern necessity.

Now, what about your education? Did you wait to go to school because student loan rates are higher than they were two decades ago?

Again, the answer is probably no. But you went and got your degree anyway. It may not have been a “good deal,” but you still wanted to further your education and land a higher-paying job.

And this is why, as a realtor, I get a little frustrated when buyers in the current real estate market are portrayed by the media as foolish.

The reality is: homebuyers today are taking steps that fall directly in line with buyers of any significant investment.

People need something. They find something that fits their needs. They buy it — period.

Of course, certain elements affect the car you can afford and the school you choose to attend. And yes, interest rates may affect the type of house you can afford to buy.

But as long as you stay within budget, there’s no reason you can’t buy a house in this market.

So, if buying a new place has been on your mind — but you’ve convinced yourself that you’re crazy for “trading in your 3% interest rate” — rest assured. You’re anything but crazy.

You are, in fact, worthy of investing in yourself and your home. And if you’re in Bridgewater, I’m here to answer any questions to help you get there.