One of the Best Times To Buy a Home This Year Is Coming Up

Thinking about buying a home this year, but wondering if the timing is right? Seasonally, the next few weeks may offer more opportunity than you might expect.

Mortgage rates are still creating affordability challenges, and there’s no ignoring that. But there are also predictable shifts that happen in the housing market this time of year — and some of those seasonal trends could work in your favor as a buyer.

According to research from Realtor.com, the week of September 27 through October 3 is expected to be the best time to buy a home nationally this year. And there’s a good reason why:

“The week of September 27 through October 3 could bring together several conditions buyers have been waiting for — more homes to choose from, less competition, and prices that have come down from their seasonal peak. For buyers who are ready to make a move, that combination could help offset higher mortgage rates while creating more opportunities to negotiate.”

That’s the best week on a national level. But depending on where you live, the ideal buying window in your local market could arrive a little earlier or later (see map below):

The exact timing will depend on your local market and how inventory and buyer demand shift throughout the season. But regardless of when your area reaches its sweet spot, there are several advantages buyers can typically look forward to this time of year.

More Options, Better Value, and Less Buyer Competition

For buyers, one of the biggest advantages right now is having more homes to choose from. In fact, recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that the number of homes available for sale has climbed to its highest level in more than a decade:

“NAR data shows that the supply of homes for sale increased significantly toward the end of summer, reaching the highest inventory level seen in more than a decade.”

With more homes on the market, you may have a better chance of finding one that fits both your needs and your budget — without having to compromise as much. And the benefits don’t stop there.

According to Realtor.com, buyers during this seasonal window could see home prices roughly $14,000 below the summer peak and face 30% less competition from other buyers. Homes also tend to stay on the market about 13 days longer, giving you more time to weigh your options and make a confident decision.

• More homes to choose from.
• More favorable pricing.
• Fewer buyers to compete with.

Together, those advantages could help offset some of the affordability challenges that come with higher mortgage rates.

The Opportunity Doesn’t End After Just One Week

But you don’t have to make a move during that exact week to take advantage of the seasonal shift. The opportunity extends beyond just a few days. Historically, buyer-friendly conditions tend to continue throughout October:

In fact, Realtor.com reports that 42 of the 50 largest metro areas are expected to see their best buying week sometime in October. So, there’s no need to feel pressured to hit one exact date. Instead, use this time to get prepared, understand your options, and be ready to act when the right home and opportunity come along. As Guaranteed Rate explains:

“The best time to buy a home depends on your needs. Certain seasons can give you an advantage when starting your homebuying journey.”

“The right time to buy a home ultimately comes down to your personal needs and goals. But certain times of the year can create more favorable conditions and give buyers an advantage in their home search.”

Bottom Line

If buying a home is still part of your plans this year, don’t count yourself out because of today’s mortgage rates. Fall can bring some of the most buyer-friendly conditions of the year, including more choices, less competition, and greater negotiating opportunities.

Wondering when those advantages typically show up in your local market?

Connect with a local real estate agent and lender to understand what’s happening in your area, what you can comfortably afford, and how to get prepared so you’re ready when the right opportunity comes along.

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