House prices vary inversely with interest rates. This is by far the biggest influence outside of cities like Sanfrancisco. Sellers, agents, and banks all want

House prices vary inversely with interest rates. This is by far the biggest influence outside of cities like Sanfrancisco. Sellers, agents, and banks all want you to pay as much as possible. Want a loan? "What is your monthly income? We'll figure out how much you qualify for." You might be able to resist these forces, but most people can't, and they set the market rates.