It might seem counter-intuitive, but buying a home in winter – from house-hunting, to getting all your worldly belongings from point A to point B – can actually be easier, cheaper and more convenient than any other time of the year. Here’s why the colder, darker months of the year could actually be a bright spot for homebuyers.
5 Benefits of Buying a Home in Winter
It’s a buyer’s market (sometimes)
Spring has always been considered the best time to put a house on the market. Warmer weather inspires buyers to get out and hit the open house circuit, while gardens and outdoor areas tend to show better when they’re not covered in three feet of snow. However, there will always be sellers who need to list their homes in the dead of winter. You’re at a distinct advantage if you’re out pounding the pavement while other would-be homeowners are busy hibernating. Less buyers means less bidding wars, less stress, and more chances for you to score the house of your dreams.
Real estate agents are less busy
The warmer months are prime buying-and-selling times, so it makes sense that the busiest time for most real estate agents is April through September. The rest of the year, though? Not so much. Make the most of the slow period and work with an agent who can give you 100 per cent of their attention and help you explore all your options. You’ll both be happy when you end up with the perfect home.
Sellers are motivated
When sellers put their houses on the market during the winter months, there’s usually a time-sensitive reason like a new job in a different city, or a baby on the way. Whatever the case, they’re often motivated to sell quickly and close the deal with minimal hassle. Luckily for you, that translates into possible savings. Sellers might accept a low-ball offer when they’re not flooded with other options, or a closing date that fits your schedule. The bottom line? Don’t be afraid to negotiate.
Moving companies might be cheaper
Unlike spring and summer, you don’t have to book a rental truck or moving company weeks (or even months) in advance. It’s pretty easy to score movers and transportation in the off-season, it might just be cheaper also. Moving and rental-truck companies usually offer winter discounts to entice customers, and you can even book weekends—which tends to be impossible in June, July and August—rather than take time off work to get the job done.
Tradespeople are easier to book
Whether you’re looking to have your new place professionally painted before you move in or need an expert to install that gorgeous vintage chandelier, you’ll have an easier time booking tradespeople in the off season. Like movers, tradespeople tend to be less busy in the colder months, when homeowners aren’t as focused on home improvement. You won’t necessarily score crazy deals, but most painters, electricians, and repair technicians will be more than happy to accommodate you.
Have more questions about the home-buying process, or ready to move forward with your purchase? Contact a RE/MAX agent today, or download the RE/MAX Home Buyer’s Guide, for everything you need to know about the purchasing process.
