Five Fun Facts: Why Buying Early in the Year is a Smart Move

As you close out 2025 and look to build momentum heading into 2026, here are 5 powerful advantage of buying a home in the beginning of the year—instead of waiting for summer:

1. Prices are typically lower.

Home prices usually hit their lowest point in December–January and peak in late spring/early summer. Buying early could save buyers tens of thousands vs. buying in May. 

2. You'll face far less competition.

Winter and early spring mean fewer buyers, fewer bidding wars, and more time to make a thoughtful offer.

3. Sellers tend to be more motivated.

Winter listings often come from sellers who need to move—job changes, deadlines, life events—and they're more willing to negotiate on price, closing costs, and terms.

4. You'll get more attention from real estate pros.

With fewer transactions happening, agents, lenders, and inspectors have lighter workloads—which means more personalized service and smoother designs.

5. You can catch issues that summer hides.

Winter exposes heating problems, insulation weaknesses, drafty windows, and how a home handles snow and ice. Great insights into future repair costs.