The Best Time to Buy

It comes as no surprise to anyone who has been paying attention to the housing market that this is a great time to buy in the macro sense...

Interest rates are the lowest in history, enabling people to buy more house for the same monthly payment
Prices are significantly lower than they were a few years ago, again enabling people to buy more house for their money
Rental rates are rising and rental vacancies are low, meaning it can cost less to own than resnt

But RIGHT NOW can also be considered the best time to buy on a micro level...

The best time of the year to make an offer on a house is in the winter

Fewer people are willing to go house hunting and make a move during cold, nasty weather so there is less competition
Sellers tend to be more motivated in the winter
- Fewer buyers can make sellers more anxious to negotiate with a ready and willing buyer
- Holiday expenses and winter heating bills may make sellers feel more financially insecure and more ready to negotiate
But fewer homes are on the market in the winter so it may be more difficult to find the right home
- However, if you find a home you like...
- Or your top priority is price...
- Winter is the best time to buy

Spring has the advantage of more homes on the market so you have a better selection

But prices tend to rise in the spring along with competition
More multiple offers occur in the spring, which can lead to frustration and possibly being priced out of the homes you love

If the homes you want all seem to be at the top of your price range... right now, this winter, may be the best time for you to buy

In spite of a better selection, spring and beyond may see you priced out of the home you want to buy because prices are expected to continue to rise. It may be better to compromise a little now to avoid compromising a lot later.

Sharlene Hensrud, RE/MAX Results Realtor - Email - Minneapolis-St. Paul Buyer's Agent