02 Jun Seasonal Living

Moving is already difficult enough no matter the time of year, but if you add in numb fingers, icy sidewalks, and runny noses, you’re in for the black liquorish of treats. It’s no wonder winter is the slowest moving season of the year. But since most homebuyers want to avoid the hassle of changing school districts mid-year and the general discomfort of moving in the cold, the winter may be the best time to buy. The housing market is ever evolving and it can be strenuous trying to find the best strategies for homebuyers. Luckily, researchers and industry experts have found that seasonal patterns dictate much of the demand in the housing market and watching the seasons change may benefit savvy homebuyers.

In most regions throughout the United States, summer is the most popular time to move. The kids are likely on a break from school, families have more free time, and most major holidays have come and gone. The weather is nice and homebuyers are aggressively in the market, increasing competition and negotiating with sellers. Though this is a logical time to start looking for a new home, so many homebuyers saturating the market simultaneously may increase costs and leave you missing out on the best deals.

On the other hand, winter is the least popular time to move due to the school year and an increase in major holidays. Not to mention the general discomfort of moving in the winter. However, because these inconveniences keep most homebuyers out of the market, competition is lower and sellers are more motivated to make a deal. Strategically house hunting during the winter months is an opportunity to find the home that you want at a price that doesn’t break the bank.

Of course, certain aspects of seasonal patterns in the housing market are also determined by where you live. Places like New York, for example, see more drastic seasonal changes than a place like California. Thus warmer, west coast areas and tropical southern regions may not see as much fluctuation based on the weather. Still, the calendar school year and the major holiday season can increase market demand throughout the winter months for states across the country.

Keeping one eye on seasonal patterns and another on the housing market is a simple strategy for finding a new home. Your region, school and work schedule, and current housing needs can impact your ability to utilize this strategy to its fullest potential, but if you are able, it can’t hurt to watch the seasons change while you find your new home.