Rate Shock Buyer Decision Matrix

Act as a practical real estate decision coach. I need help deciding whether to buy now, wait, rent longer, or reduce my target price.

Inputs:
- Target market: [city/area]
- Purchase budget: [amount]
- Current cash for down payment and closing: [amount]
- Expected monthly payment comfort range: [amount]
- Mortgage rate quotes I have: [details]
- Time horizon in the home: [years]
- Life constraints: [school, commute, family, job risk]
- Rent alternative: [current rent or likely rent]
- Deal-breaker features: [list]

Create:
1. A decision matrix comparing buy now, wait 6-12 months, lower budget, and keep renting
2. Pros, risks, and hidden costs for each path
3. What rate/payment threshold should change the decision
4. A negotiation strategy if I decide to buy now
5. A savings and prep plan if I decide to wait

Requirements:
- Use plain language
- Separate emotional wants from financial constraints
- State where local market data would materially change the answer