Pro Tips: Benefits of Buying in Winter

It’s the middle of winter and you may not be thinking of house shopping right now...HOWEVER!

Right now is an opportune time to give us a call to start looking at homes for a Spring possession! There are several advantages to looking for a home during the winter months:

Lower Inventory

Firstly, inventory is usually lower compared to the Summer months. At first glance, this seems to be a disadvantage, but with fewer options to choose from, you won’t be overwhelmed. In addition, lower inventory goes part in parcel with the next point -

Fewer Buyers

Fewer buyers exist in these winter months. This means there isn’t much competition right now for buyers, giving you a better chance to score the house of your dreams.

Negotiating Power

You are more likely to negotiate a lower purchase price within a slower market if sellers are getting anxious about the slower market conditions.

Accurate Viewing

You get to see homes in the coldest months, when they are put through their paces. This means inspecting windows and doors are a lot easier, since you can better see broken seals and feel cold air drafts. You can also look to see if any ice damming exists (a possible sign of insulation or ventilation issues).

It can be a more relaxing process to purchase during the winter months with less activity/competition, and when Realtors have more time to spend focusing on you; focusing on your needs, focusing on your wants, and focusing on finding the correct home for you before the frantic buzz of spring activity hits. You could be relaxing in front of your very own fireplace before you know it!