Let’s be honest — buying a home with today’s mortgage rates can feel overwhelming. You might even be wondering, “Should I wait until spring, when more homes are available and rates might drop?”
The truth is, no one can predict where mortgage rates are headed, and waiting could lead to more competition, higher prices, and increased pressure.
What if buying now — before the spring market heats up — could actually work to your advantage? Here are three reasons why that could be the smarter move.
Less Competition from Other Buyers
The real estate market is typically quieter during the winter months. With fewer buyers actively searching for homes, you’re likely to encounter less competition when making an offer. This can make the homebuying process feel more relaxed and less stressful.
Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that homes tend to stay on the market longer in winter than during the busier spring and summer seasons (see graph below):
With fewer buyers in the market, you’ll likely have more time to make well-informed decisions and potentially gain stronger negotiating power. As the Alabama Association of Realtors explains:
“A significant benefit of buying a home in winter is the reduced competition. Because of the perceived benefits of spring, many buyers delay the start of their house hunt. As a result, you will find fewer people competing for the same properties during winter. Less demand can translate into more negotiating power as sellers may be more willing to entertain offers or agree to concessions to get a deal closed quickly.”
More Negotiating Power
When homes stay on the market longer, sellers are often more open to negotiation. This could mean better deals for you as a buyer, whether it’s a lower purchase price or added perks like the seller covering closing costs or handling repairs. Chen Zhao, an economist at Redfin, explains:
“Buying during the off-season means less competition from other buyers. That means potentially negotiating a better deal.”
Additionally, lower demand often puts more pressure on sellers to work with serious buyers, giving you the opportunity to negotiate terms that align with your needs.
Lock in Today’s Prices Before They Rise
Historically, home prices are typically at their lowest during the winter months. Data from NAR shows that last year, home prices reached their lowest point in January, February, and March — just before the spring buying season began (see graph below):
This isn’t a new trend — data from Bright MLS reveals that between 2010 and 2024, home prices in January and February were, on average, 15% lower than during the peak pricing months, typically June. Buying during the off-season allows you to avoid the premium prices driven by spring’s high demand.
Additionally, home prices tend to appreciate over time, meaning they generally increase year after year. By purchasing now, you’re not only taking advantage of what could be the lowest prices of the year, but you’re also securing today’s price before future appreciation raises it even further.
Bottom Line
Spring might seem like the ideal time to buy, but purchasing before the peak season can offer key advantages, such as reduced competition, stronger negotiating power, and lower prices. Let’s connect if you’re ready to explore your options!
