Homebuyers are keeping a close eye on the economy—and it makes sense. A home is one of the biggest purchases most of us will ever make. With all the recession chatter in the news, it’s no surprise that many buyers are starting to rethink their plans.

According to a recent LendingTree survey, nearly two out of three Americans believe a recession is on the way. And about 74% say that expectation is influencing the way they handle their money.

But here’s the bright side: the experts aren’t nearly as worried.

Most Americans Expect a Recession, But Most Experts Don’t

According to an October report from the Wall Street Journal, only about one in three experts think we might see a recession in the next 12 months (check out the graph below):

What we do have is uncertainty—and the best way to deal with it is by focusing on facts, not fear. That means making sure you have all the information you need to make a smart, informed decision.

Here’s some solid advice for right now: it’s good to stay aware of the economy, but don’t let it completely overshadow your personal needs. Economic ups and downs happen, but the reasons people buy homes don’t really change. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, puts it this way:

“Well-prepared buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines are likely motivated by personal and lifestyle needs like growing families, new jobs, or retirement. And these considerations can outweigh short-term economic uncertainties . . . ”

What really matters is timing your move based on your life—not the headlines.

Here’s the key: if you’re thinking about buying a home right now, job stability is crucial. You want to feel confident in your income and be sure you can comfortably handle your mortgage, even if your situation—or the economy—changes.

If your job feels secure and you’ve got some savings set aside, experts say there’s no need to put your plans on hold. Just keep these tips from Redfin’s economists in mind:

Set a budget and stick to it: Don’t stretch yourself too thin. Make sure your monthly payments are manageable and you have savings for unexpected expenses. Remember to factor in costs that can go up, like taxes and insurance.
Negotiate: With more homes on the market and some buyers stepping back out of caution, you may have extra leverage with sellers. Use it to get the best deal you can.
Be smart about payments and mortgage rates: Chat with lenders about what you can comfortably afford now, what rates you qualify for, and what your options might be if rates drop later.
Think about selling before you buy: If you already own a home, selling first can ease financial pressure and give you a clearer picture of your budget for your next place.

But nothing beats having a trusted team by your side—especially in today’s market. As Bankrate puts it:

“Buying a home during a recession can sometimes be a good idea – but only for people who are lucky enough to remain financially stable . . . Be sure to enlist the help of an experienced local real estate agent. Not only do agents know their markets well, they will also work to get you the best deal in any given situation, including a recession.”