If you’re looking for the perfect property you might be wondering if buying a home in winter is a good idea. Maybe you’re ready to find your dream home, want to accommodate your family with a larger house or planning to downsize in retirement. Whatever the case, the colder months can be the perfect opportunity to start house hunting. Here’s what my experience has taught me:

Less competition

Winter isn’t everyone’s favourite time to be shopping for a new dwelling. The weather can make the experience very cold and uncomfortable. Who wants to venture out after a snowfall, drive and park on messy roads and tromp outside around yards in the chill air?
Basically, the answer is the determined buyer who knows the value of putting up with a little discomfort to find a great home. Winter is when you’ll have less competition so you can take your time assessing properties and not worry that another family is going to swoop in and make an offer quickly.

You can get a better deal

With fewer buyers available, it stands to reason that sellers are keen to seriously entertain any offer they receive. This means that they’re also more ready to negotiate with a potential purchaser. And, negotiations in these circumstances can lead to the new property owner landing a better deal. You may also find that listing prices are lower during this season.
You’ll be glad that you bundled up and braved the cold weather when you consider this benefit. It’s a good feeling when you see that you can afford more house or can borrow less to finance your next abode.

A faster closing is possible

Most people will list their property for sale in the spring. They know there are more people searching for homes at that time of year. Spring gives owners a chance to spruce up the yard and exterior and create some curb appeal. In contrast, when people list their homes in the winter it’s often because they have to. Maybe they’re moving to start a new job or need extra space for family members.
These circumstances can motivate a seller to accept a shorter closing period. In addition, real estate agents are generally less busy in the winter months so will have more time to expedite a closing.

Winter conditions tell you more about a house

Viewing a house in the winter can tell you how it handles the colder conditions. You’ll see how snow and ice impact the property outside and if there are issues such as ice collecting on the roof. Pay attention to whether the home feels warm enough in each room, if there are drafty areas and if there’s any condensation on windows.
Remember, you’re looking for a dwelling that you can live in comfortably year-round. The extremes of winter weather will give you some important information about a property.

Hiring a moving company is easier

Movers do a lot of business in the summer months. Families with school-age children want to wait until kids are out of class to tackle the big job of packing up and moving house. In fact, moving companies can often be booked months in advance during the warmer months. By moving in the winter, you’ll find it much easier to book a mover and will have your pick of reputable businesses to choose from.

In closing

When you’d like to begin your winter house hunting journey, I’m ready and willing to show you some marvellous properties that will meet your needs.