It is the best time in decades to purchase real estate with today's buyer's market, the substantial supply of inventory and exceptionally low mortgate rates.  The mortgage rates are where they were in 1973.  The rates have been this low in 2001 - 2002 which was during the seller's markets with very little inventory to choose from.  Don't be reluctant in today's market.  Buy now with the historic low interest rates, all of the bargains on the market and  sellers that are welcoming offers.