Top 3 Reasons to Purchase a Home Before Spring Arrives

Let’s be honest — buying a home in today’s market with current mortgage rates can feel daunting. You might be wondering, “Should I hold off until spring when more homes are available and rates could potentially drop?”

But here’s the reality: no one can predict where mortgage rates are headed, and delaying your purchase could mean dealing with increased competition, rising prices, and added stress.

What if buying now — before the spring surge — could actually work in your favor? Here are three reasons why that might be the case.

1. Fewer Competing Buyers

The winter season is typically slower in the real estate market. With fewer buyers actively searching for homes, you’re likely to encounter less competition when submitting an offer. This can make the homebuying process feel more relaxed and less overwhelming.

In fact, data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that homes tend to stay on the market longer during the winter months compared to spring and summer (see graph below):

With fewer buyers actively searching for homes, you’ll likely have more time to make well-considered decisions. Additionally, this reduced competition can give you greater leverage in negotiations. As noted by the Alabama Association of Realtors:

“One of the key advantages of purchasing a home in winter is the lower level of competition. Many buyers postpone their home search until spring, believing it to be a more favorable time. This means you’ll encounter fewer competitors vying for the same properties during the winter months. Reduced demand often translates to stronger negotiating power, as sellers may be more open to considering offers or agreeing to concessions to close a deal quickly.”

2. Greater Negotiating Power

When homes remain on the market longer, sellers are often more willing to negotiate. This can result in better opportunities for buyers, such as lower prices or additional perks like sellers covering closing costs or making repairs. As Chen Zhao, an Economist at Redfin, explains:

“. . . purchasing during the off-season means facing less competition from other buyers. This can lead to the possibility of securing a more favorable deal.”

Moreover, when demand is lower, sellers are typically more motivated to work with serious buyers. This could give you the advantage of negotiating terms that align with your needs.

3. Secure Today’s Prices Before They Increase

Historically, home prices tend to reach their lowest point during the winter months. According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), home prices last year were at their lowest in January, February, and March — just before the spring buying season began (see graph below):

This pattern isn’t new—data from Bright MLS reveals that between 2010 and 2024, home prices in January and February were, on average, 15% lower than the peak prices seen in June. Buying during the off-season allows you to avoid the premium prices driven by the high demand of spring.

Additionally, home prices generally increase over time, appreciating year after year. If you’re ready to buy and able to make it happen, you’re not only capitalizing on what could be the year’s lowest prices but also securing today’s price before it rises in the future.

Bottom Line

While spring is often seen as the ideal time to buy a home, making your move before the peak season can offer several compelling advantages. With less competition from other buyers, you’ll have more time to make thoughtful decisions and may even gain stronger negotiating power to secure a better deal. Additionally, winter typically brings lower home prices, allowing you to lock in a great value before prices begin to rise in the spring.

If you’re ready to explore your options and take advantage of these benefits, partnering with a local real estate agent can make all the difference. They’ll guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you find the right home at the right price while navigating the current market with confidence. Don't wait—start your home-buying journey today and position yourself ahead of the spring rush.