Is there a better time to buy?

In anyone's experience, is there a better time of year to house hunt? I know its not the same as car purchases, but if anyone knows about market fluctuations or rates or anything during the year.

Someone told me the spring is good because you'll be able to tell if the house has termites easier... i have no idea about these things- figured I would ask

Re: Is there a better time to buy?

Lots of different factors.

Some people list in early Feb and hope to have a buyer and be out by August, so they avoid showing during the holidays, and also so when they move, the kids will start their new school without interrupting the old school schedule.

Some people may not want to move during holidays.

Of course, some people are desperate, and don't care and just want to sell, or they have too......

I would go by interest rates, too. You can check those daily at bankrate.com.

When I was looking, I looked at all times during the year. Nothing stopped me. It takes a long time to find a house, and it's good to get ideas on what you like.

Yes, the market will slowly recover, but it won't happen overnight. Some people will try to tell you to buy now, but buying is not something you want to rush.

this is an interesting article - (from article) it even says that few buyers are out looking at homes during Christmas week, so the chance of multiple offers or any competition whatsoever is very low.

It also says home prices are at a 12-month low in December, and that if a person has their home on the market over Christmas, that person is definitely serious about negotiating and selling that home.



Hope this helps you!!

Re: Is there a better time to buy?

also, there are a couple of good agents on here who can help give a more professional opinion - that is only my experience as a buyer.

Re: Is there a better time to buy?

I know most homes go down in price during the winter months.

Re: Is there a better time to buy?

Definitely go on a rainy day. You'll get to see if there are any floods or leaks. If you are supposed to have a showing and the homeowner cancels. It's a sign something is wrong.

Regarding pricing - seasons don't matter. It all depends on how desperate the person is to get out.

Re: Is there a better time to buy?

thanks everyone!!

I was also told alot of houses go on the market after the new year. We have our eye on one in particular that we love and I'm hoping its still around in a few months when we'll be slightly more equipped to buy.

Re: Is there a better time to buy?

We have been on and off looking for a year and we noticed that after the Holidays or around Spring time we noticed more houses on the market, not sure why.

Re: Is there a better time to buy?

I would seriously look now.

Interest rates are low. Inventory is high. I am seeing houses that I thought would sell ASAP... now have price drops.