Are you ready to buy a home? Buying in the winter market has several advantages that are often overlooked. Here are four reasons to consider purchasing a home in the winter.

Motivated Sellers

In months typically lower in transactions, sellers are often more motivated to close faster. Many sellers putting their house on the market in the winter are not doing so because they want to but because they have to. These cases are often urgent, such as unexpected job changes or familial reasons. Real estate agents are also well aware of sellers’ motives during the slow winter months and can offer insight on whether or how willing they are to negotiate on the sale price, closing costs, or closing date. 

Less Competition 

Generally, there are fewer buyers in the winter because fewer people are willing to go house hunting in cold weather. As a result, nearly 40% of all real estate transactions country-wide occur between May and August.

Due to fewer buyers remaining active in their search, finding a home you love becomes easier for a price you can afford. Fewer buyers also mean fewer all-cash, over-asking offers, making your traditionally financed offer more appealing. 

Test Durability Through Harsher Weather

Visiting open houses in the summer seems ideal with warm weather and better lighting, but that can be a mistake for New England residents. Continuing your home search in the winter means you can look for signs of weather-related issues. Seeing how a house weathers the winter climates shows a house’s durability. For example, some homes experience cracks in the foundation, frozen and cracked pipes, poorly insulated rooms, and weathered roofs during the colder months.  

More Flexibility With Movers

As we all become accustomed to moving in slow motion in the winter, moving companies do not. With a decrease in business, moving companies often incentivize using their business by offering discounted rates. Due to the lack of competition, you’ll likely be successful in booking the exact time you need to be out of your old home and into your new one!

Conclusion

Are you looking to buy a home this winter? Contact us today!