Buying a home is a huge deal and you want to make sure you choose the right home for you and your family. The time of year you decide to buy matters, too.
Most homebuyers shop in the summer season because the kids are out of school, it’s not as busy for most families, and more homes are on the market. However, following the crowd isn’t always a good idea. There are many reasons to buy a home in the winter and here are seven to consider.
1. Less Competition
The winter season doesn’t see a large number of homes hitting the market like the spring and summer seasons. While fewer homes are on the market may seem like a bad thing, it also means fewer buyers are looking.
Most buyers will wait until the spring or summer, which means less competition for you. Finding the right home during the winter often means you won’t have to compete nearly the same way you would in the summer.
2. Motivated Sellers
Sellers listing their homes in the winter could be motivated to sell. They may have to sell quickly or they may be looking to avoid the looky-loos of the peak selling season. Either way, depending on how long a home has been on the market, sellers could be willing to make a deal with buyers.
3. More Mover Availability
Moving is a hassle and finding a good moving company isn’t always easy. The summer is the peak time for movers, while the winter is the slower season. During the winter, you’ll have better luck finding a good mover with availability, even last minute.
4. Faster Closing
The peak home-selling season also impacts the mortgage industry. Sometimes, brokers may become backed up with closings and you may not be able to close for several weeks.
During the winter, you can close faster simply because mortgage brokers aren’t as busy.
5. Realtors Have More Time
Just like movers and mortgage brokers, Realtors aren’t as busy during the winter months. This means they have more time to focus on you and help you find the right home for your family.
6. Fewer Bidding Wars
With fewer buyers looking, you’re less likely to enter into a bidding war over a home during the winter. When you buy a home in the winter, you may be the only offer the home receives. Sellers know it’s a slower time of year and they may be more willing to accept your offer without holding out for a bidding war. However, some homes attract multiple buyers even in the winter, especially if priced well and if they are in a desirable location.
7. Ability to Test the Home
The winter season is usually the harshest season for homes. When you buy a home in the winter, you get to see how it will hold up. You can test the home out in the worst conditions of the year without wondering what might happen in the winter.
Buying a home in the winter might be the perfect choice for some buyers. Whether you’re relocating and you don’t have a choice or you want to avoid the crowds, buying a home in the winter is often a smart decision.
I would love to be part of your journey when the time is right for you. If you ever have a real estate question or need, or know someone who does, trust that you can turn to me. I will help you make the right move! Anna Granger 704-650-5707 | annagrangerhomes@gmail.com | www.1stchoicepropertiesinc.com
