<prompt> Human: Because the interest rate is rising, Im trying to determine if I should put all my savings efforts into the 120K to 150K Ill need for a 20 down payment on a forever house. Original goal was Spring 2015, but concerned about rising rates. Should I forgo retirement savings, kids college savings, etc. for 2 years to try to up the deadline and grab better historical rates?  <response>: The historically low rates thing is a little bit propaganda-ish. The right time to buy is when you can comfortably afford it; careful shopping around and waiting until you find the deal you want on a house you will be happy with forever will save you more money than a point or two on interest.If the interest rate goes up, it will largely be on account of a better economy, which will likely benefit you in other ways. For instance, make your retirement portfolio go up So, dont worry too too much. 