Real Estate Experts: These Are the 3 Best Times of Year To Buy a Home
If you’re in the market for a home, you’ve probably heard that timing is everything. But when exactly is the best time to buy?
We asked real estate experts for their take and while their opinions varied, they highlighted different advantages depending on the time of year — whether it’s finding better deals, avoiding competition or having more options to choose from. Here’s a breakdown of the best times of the year to buy a home.
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Why Spring and Summer Are Challenging for Bargain Hunters
Some experts say spring and early summer are peak real estate seasons because they bring an influx of listings and heightened competition.
“Spring and summer are the busiest times in the market. That’s when we see a lot of homes listed, which sounds great, but it also means you’re up against a lot of competition. Prices are also higher during these months because sellers know buyers are out there looking. In fact, May is usually the most expensive month to buy, with prices peaking around that time,” said Mike Roberts, co-founder of City Creek Mortgage.
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“If the buyer wants the most possible options, then spring and summer are the best times to purchase because that is when the most listings happen, but also that is when the most competition happens so it is not the best time to get a good deal,” said Holden Andrews, founder of Helpful Home Group.
Sebastian Frey, Silicon Valley broker, explained that spring’s demand often outweighs supply.
“Each year begins in January with the lowest amount of homes for sale (inventory) we’ll see all year long,” he said. “As the year gets going, buyers come into the market faster than sellers put homes up for sale, resulting in a balance of supply versus demand that favors sellers — which increases sale prices and shortens time on market.”
Late Summer and Fall: A Sweet Spot for Buyers?
If you’re looking for a balance between selection and affordability, late summer and early fall might be ideal.
“By late summer, competition drops off,” Roberts said. “November, in particular, tends to have the lowest seller premiums. Early October can also be a good time to find deals before the holiday season starts.”
In seasonal markets like Palm Springs, Realtor Geoffrey Moore pointed out that sellers feel pressured to close deals before summer begins. “Sellers know the number of buyers will drop off, so they tend to be more flexible in pricing. It’s better to sell now than hold on for another four or five months,” he said.
Alexei Morgado, Florida realtor, referenced a Realtor.com report that identified the last week of September as a prime time to buy — buyers saved an average of $14,000 over peak summer prices.
Winter: The Best Time for Negotiation
If getting a good deal is your priority, winter — particularly November through January — may be the best time to buy. Most experts report fewer buyers in the market, which means sellers listing during these months are often more motivated to close quickly.
“If a seller is listing between September and December, it’s usually because they must sell,” said Missy Der, real estate advisor at Engel & Völkers. With less competition, buyers may have more room to negotiate price, seller concessions or flexible terms.
“Buyer activity tends to slow down in November, December and January. With fewer buyers in the market, you’re less likely to face bidding wars, which can lead to better deals,” said Yoann Dorat, South Florida real agent.
Winter also reveals a home’s weak points, such as heating efficiency, insulation and driveway accessibility — giving buyers a clearer picture of potential maintenance costs. Plus, closing before year-end can bring tax benefits, such as mortgage interest and property tax deductions.
While inventory may be lower, for buyers focused on savings and negotiation power, winter offers prime opportunities.
Timing Depends on Buyer Priorities
While seasonal trends matter, experts emphasize that the best time to buy depends on individual goals.
“The best time of year is subjective because if the buyer wants the most possible options then spring and summer are the best,” Andrews explained. “But also that is when the most competition happens, so it is not the best time to get a good deal. Whereas, during winter, sellers are more willing to accept a low offer. It really depends on how the buyer defines a good deal.”
Local market conditions also play a role. In Palm Springs, the real estate market slows when temperatures rise. According to Dorat, the luxury market in South Florida is active during winter due to snowbird buyers.
For those buying in December, there’s another advantage: property tax savings. “By buying at the end of the year, you can immediately file for your homestead exemption, which will help lessen your tax burden,” said Der.
So, When Should You Buy?
The best time to buy a home depends on your priorities. Spring and summer offer the most inventory but come with higher prices and competition. Late summer and fall can be a sweet spot between finding better deals while still offering a decent selection.
Experts consistently claim that winter is ideal for negotiation, as sellers are often more motivated, but inventory is limited. Ultimately, the best time to buy is when you find the right home at the right price — working with a local expert can help you time your purchase wisely.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Real Estate Experts: These Are the 3 Best Times of Year To Buy a Home
