3 Reasons To Buy a Home Before Spring

Let’s face it — buying a home can feel like a challenge with today’s mortgage rates. You might even be thinking, “Should I just wait until spring when more homes hit the market and rates might be lower?”

But here’s the thing, no one knows for sure where mortgage rates will go from here, and waiting could mean facing more competition, higher prices, and a lot more stress.

What if buying now — before the spring rush — might actually give you the upper hand? Here are three reasons why that just might be the case.

1. Less Competition from Other Buyers

The winter months tend to be quieter in the real estate market. Fewer people are actively looking for homes, which means you’ll likely face less competition when you make an offer. This makes the process feel less rushed and less stressful.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes sit on the market longer in winter compared to spring and summer (see graph below):

Fewer buyers in the market means you’ll likely have more time to make thoughtful decisions. It also means you may have more negotiating power. According to the Alabama Association of Realtors:

“A significant benefit of buying a home in winter is the reduced competition. Because of the perceived benefits of spring, many buyers delay the start of their house hunt. As a result, you will find fewer people competing for the same properties during winter. Less demand can translate into more negotiating power as sellers may be more willing to entertain offers or agree to concessions to get a deal closed quickly.”

2. More Negotiating Power

With homes staying on the market longer, sellers may be more willing to negotiate. This can lead to better deals for you as a buyer, whether that means a lower price or added incentives, like sellers covering closing costs or making repairs. As Chen Zhao, an Economist at Redfin, points out:

“. . . buying during the off season means less competition from other buyers. That means potentially negotiating a better deal.”

Plus, when demand is lower, sellers often feel more pressure to work with serious buyers. This could give you an edge to negotiate terms that work best for your situation.

3. Lock in Today’s Prices Before They Rise

Historically, home prices tend to be at their lowest point in the winter months, too. According to data from NAR, home prices last year were at their lowest in January, February, and March — right before the spring buying season kicked in (see graph below):

This trend isn’t new — Bright MLS shows between 2010 and 2024, home prices in January and February were, on average, 15% lower than during the month of peak home prices (typically June). Buying in the off-season means you’re more likely to avoid paying the premium prices that come with the high demand of spring.

On top of that, home prices generally appreciate over time, meaning they tend to go up year after year. That means if you’re ready to buy and you can make it happen, you’re not only taking advantage of what might be the lowest prices of the year, but you’re also locking in today’s price before it increases in the future.

While spring may seem like the obvious time to buy, moving before the peak season can give you significant advantages, like less competition, more negotiation power, and lower prices. If you’re ready to explore your options, let’s connect.

Snowshoe with a Ranger

Learn about the history of the old Galena mining camp and about the local animals who leave their tracks in the snow during a free Snowshoe with a Ranger tour. The Sawtooth National Recreation Area is offering free snowshoe tours leaving from the porch of Galena lodge, Thursdays at 11am through March 20th.

The snowshoe trip lasts about two hours, covering 1.5 miles with stops along the way. Tour-goers will learn about the winter ecology and more during the tour. A free one-day Blaine County Recreation district snowshoe pass will be provided. Snowshoes can be rented at Galena Lodge. Snowshoers are advised to dress warmly in layers, wear insulated waterproof boots, gloves, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. Dogs and other pets are not allowed on these particular tours.

Steelheads 24/25 Season

All games are at Idaho Central Arena in Boise.

Puck Drop @ 7:00pm

Doors Open @ 6:00pm

To view details and more information, 

click on the property listed below.

Kuna, Idaho, is a growing community just south of Boise that offers small-town charm with easy access to city conveniences. Known for its wide-open spaces, scenic farmland, and welcoming atmosphere, Kuna provides a peaceful lifestyle while still being close to the amenities of the Treasure Valley. The area has experienced significant growth in recent years, attracting families, professionals, and retirees looking for an affordable and relaxed way of life.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Kuna, from exploring Celebration Park, Idaho’s first archaeological park with ancient petroglyphs, to enjoying the scenic Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, home to one of the world's largest populations of nesting raptors. The town also hosts local events like Kuna Days, a fun-filled summer festival featuring parades, fireworks, and live entertainment. Whether it's hiking, fishing, or simply taking in the beautiful Idaho landscape, Kuna offers plenty of opportunities for adventure.

With a strong sense of community, top-rated schools, and an increasing number of new businesses and developments, Kuna is an attractive place to call home. Its affordability compared to nearby Boise makes it especially appealing to first-time homebuyers and those looking for more space without sacrificing convenience. As Kuna continues to grow while maintaining its small-town feel, it remains one of the best-kept secrets in the Treasure Valley.

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