April 4, 2025

5 ROADBLOCKS TO AFFORDABLE HOMEOWNERSHIP (AND WAYS TO MOVE PAST THEM)

Dreaming of a new home but feeling priced out? You’re not alone! According to a recent survey by Bankrate, 78% of aspiring homebuyers cite affordability issues as their primary deterrent.1

 

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, home prices have risen around 32% since the pandemic, and elevated mortgage rates have caused monthly payments to balloon.2

Despite the challenges, homeownership remains a top goal for many Americans. Fortunately, there are ways to turn your dreams of homeownership into reality! In this guide, we’ll explore five common roadblocks to affordable homeownership and actionable solutions to help you overcome them. Let’s break down those barriers so you can finally get the home of your dreams!


ROADBLOCK #1: I Don't Have Enough Saved For A Down Payment


Many prospective buyers believe they need a 20% down payment to buy a home. But in reality, most conventional loans require just 3-5%. And, for buyers who qualify, there are a number of programs and mortgage options that can make a home purchase more accessible.

 

Down Payment Assistance Programs (DPAs)

DPAs offer grants, loans, and other financial assistance to help with your down payment and closing costs. Many programs are specifically designed for first-time buyers, but there are also options for repeat homebuyers.3,4 These programs can significantly reduce the upfront costs of buying a home. We can help you find down payment assistance programs. Contact us to find out if you may qualify!

 

0% Down Government-Backed Mortgages
If you qualify for certain government-backed mortgages, you may not need to come up with a down payment at all.5 While these loans, offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), are not available to all buyers, they offer numerous benefits, including competitive rates and no down payment requirement. 


  • VA loans are available to U.S. military members, including veterans and surviving spouses.6 They do not require a down payment, though the buyer must pay a fee at closing.
  • USDA loans are available to moderate to low-income buyers in certain rural areas.7 They do not require a down payment. 


Family Gifts

Did you know that 25% of first-time buyers in 2024 reported receiving down payment gifts or loans from family members or friends?8 In fact, a growing number of Baby Boomers are choosing to gift all or a portion of their heirs’ inheritance before they pass away.9 Some financial advisors even recommend this as part of their client’s estate plan. Just be sure to follow the proper procedures to document these types of gifts, if you’re fortunate enough to receive them.10

 

Existing Home Equity

Due to record-high real estate gains over the past few years, if you already own a home, you may have more equity than you realize.11 This equity (or difference between your home’s current value and what you owe on your mortgage) could go toward a down payment on a new property. Wondering how much equity you have in your current home? Reach out for a free home value assessment.


ROADBLOCK #2: I Can't Afford the Monthly Payment


Worried about those monthly mortgage payments? High interest rates and rising costs can make mortgage payments feel daunting. But there are strategies to reduce your monthly burden.

                         

Explore Alternative Mortgage Terms

The traditional 30-year fixed-rate mortgage isn’t the only kind of loan out there. Options like adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) or hybrid mortgages can offer lower initial rates.12, 13 Some buyers opt for these if they plan to sell the home before the initial rate term ends or refinance down the road. A lower mortgage rate can significantly lower your monthly payment. However, it’s important to understand the risks involved so you can weigh the pros and cons before deciding.

 

Consider Discount Points

Buying discount points—a process also known as a permanent rate buy-down—is another great way to limit your monthly costs.14 Essentially, this strategy involves prepaying a fee to lower your interest rate across the life of your loan. If a seller is especially motivated, they may be willing to pay for discount points for the buyer to close the deal on a home. In some cases, we can help you negotiate these types of seller concessions.


Ask About Seller Financing or an Assumable Mortgage

Here are two less common options you might not have considered:15


  • Seller Financing – The seller acts as the bank, offering you potentially better terms than a traditional mortgage.
  • Assumable Mortgage – You take over the seller's existing mortgage with a lower interest rate than what's currently offered by lenders.


Note that these options may or may not be possible for you depending on the seller, the home, and the type of mortgage, but they are worth exploring—and we can help.

 

Co-Buy with Family or Friends

A growing number of homebuyers are returning to multigenerational living or are even buying a home with friends.16 This arrangement enables you to cut costs significantly while sharing both the time and financial responsibilities of homeownership. We can help you search for homes that are well suited for your group.

 

Purchase a Home with Income Potential

You can generate extra income to offset your mortgage payments by purchasing a duplex, renting out a room or an accessory dwelling unit (like a garage apartment), or even listing your property on Airbnb. We work with investors and can help you find a property to meet your goals.


ROADBLOCK #3: I Can't Qualify for a Mortgage


Qualifying for a mortgage can be a stressful process, especially if you have previously faced financial challenges. But you might be pleasantly surprised—there’s a lot you can do to improve your chances of success.

 

Boost Your Credit Score

Your credit score is foundational when it comes to getting a mortgage.17 A higher score typically means a lower interest rate and more options. Take steps to improve your credit by paying bills on time, reducing debt, and checking your credit report for errors. Even a small improvement in your score can make a big difference. Pro tip: Avoid opening or closing credit cards or taking out other loans (like car or personal loans) if you plan to start home shopping in the near future.


Lower Your Debt-to-Income Ratio

Lenders want to see that you can comfortably handle your debts. They assess this by calculating your debt-to-income ratio: your total monthly loan payments (including mortgage, car loans, student loans, and credit cards) divided by your gross monthly salary.18 Paying down other types of debt, like your car loan, will leave more space in your budget for a monthly mortgage payment.

 

Apply for an FHA Loan

FHA loans are designed for buyers with less access to savings, as well as those with lower credit scores.19 Down payments on FHA mortgages can be as low as 3.5% with a credit score of 580 or above, or 10% with a credit score of 500 or above. Generally, the buyer’s debt-to-income ratio must be below 43%, with no more than 31% of income going to mortgage payments. These loans do come with some additional requirements, such as mortgage insurance (including an upfront premium of 1.75% at closing), a pre-purchase inspection, and borrowing limits that vary based on geographic area.

 

Consider Getting a Co-Signer

Having a co-signer with a stronger credit history or more income can strengthen your application, but make sure you (and they) understand the risks and responsibilities involved.


ROADBLOCK #4: I Can't Find a Home in My Price Range


Feeling frustrated by the lack of affordable homes on the market? Unfortunately, this is a common problem.20 But with a little flexibility and guidance, it’s possible to find a great property to fit most budgets.

                               

Expand Your Home Search

You may need to search outside your target area. In many markets, home prices vary drastically within the span of miles.21 Being open to exploring alternative neighborhoods or those farther from town can open up surprising possibilities. As local market experts, we can help you discover hidden gems and up-and-coming neighborhoods. Reach out for a complimentary consultation.

 

Revisit Your Must-Haves

Take a close look at your "must-have" list. Are there any features you can compromise on to expand your options and find a more affordable property? For example, do you really need two bathrooms, or could you settle for a single bathroom with space to add a second one in the future? These types of compromises can sometimes shave tens of thousands off your purchase price. We’re happy to offer our thoughts on the features that you’re likely to find within your budget.
 

Consider Fixer-Uppers

Looking to cut purchase costs? Don't shy away from homes that need a little TLC.22 Fixer-uppers usually come with a lower price tag, and you can personalize the renovations to your taste. Just be sure to factor in the cost of repairs and renovations when determining your budget—and to be realistic about your own home repair skills! If you’re interested in exploring fixer-upper opportunities, we can help you identify properties with potential and connect you with reliable contractors.
 
 ROADBLOCK #5: I'm Overwhelmed by the Process


Buying a home can feel like navigating a maze. Between searching for properties, securing financing, negotiating contracts, and handling paperwork, the process can quickly become overwhelming. But you don’t have to do it alone! We can simplify every step, helping you stay organized, informed, and confident in your decisions.

 

Find the Right Home Faster

The sheer number of listings on the market can be daunting, and homes that meet your criteria may not always be easy to find. Our team can:


  • Save you time by narrowing down homes that fit your budget, needs, and lifestyle.
  • Get you access to off-market and pre-listing properties that aren’t widely advertised.
  • Provide insights on local market trends to help you make a competitive offer.


Navigate Financing & Paperwork With Ease

Real estate transactions involve complex contracts, legal documents, and lender requirements. One misstep could delay your purchase—or even cost you your dream home. We will:


  • Help you find down payment assistance or grants that you may not be aware of.
  • Explain mortgage options and connect you with reputable lenders.
  • Ensure all purchase documents are accurate and deadlines are met.


Score the Best Deal

Many buyers worry about overpaying for a home or getting stuck with costly repairs, but we know how to:


  • Use expert negotiation tactics to secure the best possible price.
  • Identify hidden costs so you aren’t caught off guard at closing.
  • Negotiate repairs or seller concessions to save you money.


Streamline Inspections & Closing

The home inspection and closing process can bring last-minute surprises. We avoid these by:


  • Helping you interpret inspection reports and advising on necessary repairs.
  • Coordinating with lenders, appraisers, and title companies to keep everything on track.
  • Preparing you for closing day so you know exactly what to expect.


Benefit From Ongoing Support

Our relationship doesn’t end once you get the keys. We always go the extra mile to:


  • Recommend trusted contractors for renovations and repairs.
  • Help you make strategic upgrades through complimentary real estate consultations.
  • Provide market updates in case you want to refinance or sell later.


The bottom line? You don’t have to navigate this process alone. When you work with us, you’ll have a trusted partner to handle the complexities, answer your questions, and ensure everything goes smoothly from start to finish.


LET’S TURN ROADBLOCKS INTO STEPPING STONES TOWARD YOUR DREAM HOME


Buying a home may come with challenges, but none of them are impossible to overcome. With the right strategies, resources, and expert guidance, you can navigate these obstacles with ease.


Whether you're worried about saving for a down payment, qualifying for a mortgage, or finding the right home in your price range, there are solutions available to help you move forward. The key is to stay informed, explore all your options, and work with professionals who can guide you every step of the way.


Our team is here to help you find the right home, secure the best financing, and negotiate the best deal—without the stress and uncertainty of doing it all yourself. Let’s turn your homeownership dreams into reality. Contact us today to get started!

 

The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.

 

 

SOURCES:

1.    Bankrate - 
 https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/home-affordability-report/#unaffordability

2.    Nerdwallet - 
 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/2025-home-buyer-report

3.    Bankrate - 
 https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/first-time-homebuyer-grants/#types

4.    Down Payment Resource - 
 https://downpaymentresource.com/

5.    Bankrate - 
 https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/types-of-mortgages/#government-backed

6.    Bankrate - 
 https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/understanding-va-loans/

7.    Bankrate - 
 https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/what-is-a-usda-loan/

8.    National Association of Realtors - 
 https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/highlights-from-the-profile-of-home-buyers-and-sellers

9.    Business Insider - 
 https://www.businessinsider.com/boomers-not-waiting-pass-inheritance-wealth-transfer-millennials-need-it-2024-7

10.  Experian - 
 https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/down-payment-gift-rules/

11.  Bankrate - 
 https://www.bankrate.com/home-equity/homeowner-equity-data-and-statistics/

12.  Nerdwallet - 
 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/adjustable-rate-mortgage-arm

13.  Lending Tree - 
 https://www.lendingtree.com/home/mortgage/what-is-a-hybrid-mortgage/

14.  Investopedia - 
 https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/discountpoints.asp

15.  Lending Tree - 
 https://www.lendingtree.com/home/mortgage/what-to-know-about-owner-financing/

16.  National Association of Realtors - 
 https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/economists-outlook/home-for-the-holidays-the-rise-of-multi-generational-home-buying

17.  Consumer Financial Protection Bureau - 
 https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/credit-reports-and-scores/

18.  Nerdwallet - 
 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/debt-income-ratio-mortgage

19.  Bankrate - 
 https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/what-is-an-fha-loan/#requirements

20.  Bankrate - 
 https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/low-inventory-housing-shortage/

21.  Realtor - 
 https://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/priced-out-of-dream-neighborhood-cheaper-alternative/ 

22.  This Old House - 
 https://www.thisoldhouse.com/buying/21017198/buying-a-fixer-upper-house

The True Cost of Homeownership: What You Pay Beyond the Mortgage

February 2, 2026
When most homebuyers calculate whether they can afford a new home, they focus almost exclusively on one number: the monthly mortgage payment. It's the figure lenders qualify them for, the number discussed during showings, and the benchmark used to determine budgets. The average annual cost of owning and maintaining a single-family home in the U.S., excluding the mortgage itself, is estimated at around $21,400 in 2025—roughly $1,800 per month.¹ When you factor in these national average ownership expenses, a $2,500 monthly mortgage can grow to over $4,000 in total housing costs. for a mortgage answers one question: "Can a bank trust you with this loan?" It doesn't answer the more important one: "Can you comfortably maintain this lifestyle?" In today's market, where nearly 45% of homeowners report post-purchase regrets (most commonly because maintenance and hidden costs were higher than expected), understanding the full financial picture before buying has never been more important.² The Predictable Ongoing Costs Property Taxes Property tax bills have been rising sharply nationwide, with the average reaching $4,271 in 2024 and many homeowners seeing increases of 16% or more. 3 Even where tax rates dip slightly, rising home values keep actual bills climbing—creating the irony that a home's appreciation increases annual expenses. Property taxes aren't truly fixed. Reassessments happen regularly, and as neighborhood values rise, so do tax bills—even when rates stay the same. Homeowners Insurance As of December 2025, the average premium for a new policy rose 8.5% year-over-year . 4 Climate disasters, higher rebuilding costs, and insurer risk recalibration continue driving these increases, and the trend shows no signs of reversing. A homeowner could see their monthly payment jump $200-300 in a single year without taking any action themselves—simply because their mortgage servicer adjusted the escrow to cover higher insurance premiums. HOA Dues About 40% of homes for sale have HOA fees, with median costs around $125 per month, though single-family homes typically range from $200-$300 monthly.⁵ These fees rarely decrease and often include special assessments that can add thousands in unexpected annual costs. Utilities In 2024, energy and utility costs averaged $4,494 annually, with internet and cable adding another $1,515. 1 Buyers moving from apartments to single-family homes often see these costs double due to increased square footage, outdoor irrigation, and climate control demands. Routine Maintenance Beyond emergencies, homes require ongoing care: lawn service, gutter cleaning, pest control, HVAC servicing, and seasonal tasks. These aren't luxuries for many households—they're practical solutions to time constraints and property upkeep. Collectively, these services can add $200-400 monthly to ownership costs. The Irregular—but Inevitable—Expenses Major System Replacements This is where many homeowners get caught off guard. Maintenance and repairs aren't a matter of "if" but "when"—and recent years have made "when" far more expensive. Home maintenance now averages around $8,800 annually, with first-year homeowners often facing even higher costs. 1,6 Major repairs aren't cheap: ● HVAC replacement: $5,000-$10,000 ● Roof replacement: $8,000-$15,000 ● Water heater: $1,200-$2,500 ● Foundation repairs: $4,000-$12,000 These aren't possibilities—they're certainties with varying timelines. Use the inspection as a planning tool. A 15-year-old water heater or aging roof signals $8,000-12,000 in likely expenses within the first few years. That's not a deal-breaker—it's a budget roadmap. Buyers who understand these timelines can plan strategically instead of scrambling when systems fail. Newer isn't maintenance-free. Newer builds offer a temporary reprieve, but systems still age, warranties expire, and eventually every home requires major capital improvements. Emergency repairs happen at the worst times. An HVAC failure during a heat wave, a burst pipe in winter, or storm damage to the roof—these scenarios happen when it's least convenient and most expensive. Without liquid reserves, a single emergency can derail finances entirely. Ownership Costs That Creep Up Over Time Here's what surprises many first-time buyers: the so-called "fixed costs" of homeownership aren't actually fixed. While a locked-rate mortgage provides payment stability, the escrowed components—taxes and insurance—can climb significantly year over year due to inflation, climate risk, and local policy changes. A mortgage payment that felt comfortable at closing can feel tight three years later, even without lifestyle changes. Picture this: a letter arrives saying the monthly payment is increasing $200 because insurance premiums rose and the property was reassessed at a higher value. No move, no refinance, no renovation—yet annual housing costs just jumped $2,400. The same gradual creep affects utilities, maintenance services, and every other aspect of homeownership. Budgeting for homeownership means expecting these costs to rise 3-5% annually. True stability requires planning for volatility. Planning Smarter: How Homeowners Can Stay Ahead The encouraging news: buyer's remorse is largely preventable. The issue isn't buying the wrong house—it's buying without adequate preparation. Create a Dedicated House Repair Fund Separate from emergency savings, this fund exists solely for home maintenance and repairs. Treat it like a non-negotiable monthly bill—set up automatic transfers so it happens without thinking about it. The old rule of saving 1% of your home's value annually? It's outdated. Plan for more—closer to 2-3% of your home's value annually, or whatever amount lets you sleep at night knowing the HVAC won't derail your budget. Don't Drain Your Savings at Closing Cash reserves protect against surprises and prevent forced debt when repairs arise. If possible, keep several thousand dollars liquid after closing rather than putting every available dollar into the down payment or upgrades. That breathing room matters more than most buyers realize. Invest in Preventative Maintenance Annual HVAC servicing, gutter cleaning, and seasonal inspections catch small problems before they become expensive emergencies. A modest service call that prevents a major system failure is always worthwhile. Create a seasonal maintenance calendar: HVAC checkups in spring and fall, gutter cleaning before winter, roof inspections after major storms. Consistency prevents costly surprises. Know Your Home's Systems and Timelines Understanding when major systems were last replaced helps predict future expenses. A 12-year-old water heater isn't an emergency today, but it signals a likely expense within 2-3 years. Planning beats scrambling. When Homeownership Still Make Sense Despite the expenses, homeownership remains one of the most powerful wealth-building tools available to American families—when approached correctly! Long-Term Equity Building Mortgage payments build equity with every payment. Unlike rent, ownership creates a forced savings mechanism that compounds over decades. In most markets, homes appreciate over time, multiplying the wealth-building effect. Stability and Control Homeowners control their living environment. Want to renovate the kitchen, paint the walls, landscape the yard, or install solar panels? Ownership provides autonomy that renting never will. That control has both lifestyle and financial value. Predictability vs. Rent Volatility While ownership costs rise gradually over time, rent increases can be sudden and dramatic—with national rents climbing 31% over the past five year. 7 A fixed-rate mortgage provides payment predictability that renting cannot match. Yes, taxes and insurance increase, but the principal and interest portion—typically 60-70% of the total payment—remains locked. Renters face volatility on 100% of their housing costs. Lifestyle Benefits Beyond finances, homeownership offers intangible benefits: deeper community roots, stability for families, space for hobbies, and the pride of building something that's truly yours. These benefits have real value, even if they don't appear on a balance sheet. The key is ensuring the financial foundation supports the lifestyle, not undermines it. A Better Way to Think About Affordability The true measure of affordability isn't what a lender will approve—it's what allows sleeping well at night when the water heater fails or the insurance premium spikes. The smartest buyers calculate affordability as "mortgage plus carrying costs" from the start, which might narrow the price range slightly but creates breathing room and peace of mind. Homeownership remains one of the most powerful wealth-building tools available, but only when approached with financial realism rather than maximum leverage. Having an honest conversation about what affordability truly looks like isn't about limiting dreams—it's about making sure those dreams don't become financial nightmares. Sources: 1. Bankrate: https://www.bankrate.com/home-equity/hidden-costs-of-homeownership-study/ 2. Bankrate: https://www.bankrate.com/f/102997/x/c84a6b9359/homeowner-regrets-survey-press-release.pdf 3. Matic: https://matic.com/blog/2026-home-insurance-predictions/ 4. NAHB: https://www.nahb.org/blog/2025/12/property-taxes-2024-residential/ 5. Realtor.com: https://www.realtor.com/research/homeowners-associations-2024/ 6. Inman: https://www.inman.com/2026/01/12/as-home-maintenance-costs-rise-agents-turn-to-tools-that-reduce-buyer-risk/ 7. Rentec Direct: https://www.rentecdirect.com/blog/new-data-shows-the-state-of-rent-in-2025-from-rentec-direct/ 

2026 US Housing Market Forecast: Will the Market Find Its Footing?

January 5, 2026
Will 2026 be the year buyers stop waiting? Forecasters are split, predicting anywhere from 1.7% 1 to 14% 2 growth in home sales. That 12-point gap reveals the central question facing the housing market: how much will slightly lower mortgage rates and slowly eroding lock-in effects actually unlock pent-up demand? Nearly every major forecaster agrees the market will be more active than 2025. But beyond that consensus, predictions diverge sharply on pace and scale. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) expects robust 14% sales growth. Realtor.com sees a modest 1.7% bump. Both could be right for different markets and price points. For anyone planning to buy, sell, or simply understand their home equity position in 2026, these diverging forecasts matter less than the underlying fundamentals. Mortgage rates should settle slightly lower. Inventory will improve modestly. Prices will continue rising, though more slowly than recent years. The market is thawing. More importantly, the housing market appears to be returning to the pace and rhythm of more normal conditions after the artificial volatility of the pandemic era. The 2025 Context: Why the Market Stayed Frozen The 2025 housing market disappointed. Mortgage rates remained stubbornly above 6.5%, suppressing demand and keeping transaction volumes near historic lows. 8 As of mid-2025, more than 80% of U.S. homeowners hold mortgage rates below 6%, reinforcing the lock-in effect that has kept many would-be sellers on the sidelines.³ Affordability challenges reached acute levels. The typical first-time buyer aged to 40 years old 4 , reflecting simple math that monthly payments at elevated rates and prices pushed homeownership out of reach for younger buyers. The market did not crash but did not heal either, with overall transaction volume remaining constrained. 2026 Predictions: Where Forecasters Agree and Disagree Mortgage Rates: Consensus on Modest Improvement Forecasters agree broadly on mortgage rate trajectories. Expectations cluster tightly in the 6.0% to 6.4% range, representing modest but meaningful improvement from 2025 levels.  2026 Mortgage Rate Forecasts

Planning Your 2026 Real Estate Moves: A Guide to the Best Buying and Selling Seasons

December 2, 2025
Timing isn’t everything in real estate, but it can mean the difference between saving $20,000 or paying a premium, selling in 30 days or waiting three months, and negotiating from a position of strength or uncertainty. As we look toward 2026, understanding seasonal patterns has become more critical than ever. With inventory levels normalizing and market conditions continuing to evolve, knowing when to make your move can dramatically impact your outcome. Whether you're a first-time buyer watching every dollar or a seller trying to maximize your profit, the season you choose matters. The challenge? Not everyone can wait for the "perfect" time. Job relocations happen in January. A growing family needs more space in July. Retirement doesn’t wait for spring. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of each season so you can make the smartest decision within your timeline. Spring: Peak Selling Season (March-May) Spring isn’t called peak season by accident. The housing market comes alive with energy that is impossible to ignore. Data shows homes listed in spring sell in as few as 33 days, compared to 49 days in winter. 1 May also offers the highest seller premium, 13.1% above market value, translating to faster sales and higher returns. 2 Buyer psychology also plays a role. Warmer weather encourages open house attendance, longer daylight allows more viewings, and families aim to move before school starts, creating urgency. Spring blooms and greenery boost curb appeal in ways winter staging cannot match. 3 The Competition Factor The trade-off is that spring’s advantages come with more competition. Sellers must make their homes stand out, pricing correctly, staging well, and marketing aggressively. Buyers benefit from the largest inventory, with new properties listed weekly, but face higher competition. In May and June, 35% of buyers pay above list price compared to 24% in January, making bidding wars common and increasing pressure to decide quickly. 4 Summer: Extended Peak Season (June-August) As spring transitions to summer, the market maintains its momentum. June often sees the highest sales volume of the year, with more than 16,500 homes selling per day. 1 The Family Timeline Summer’s appeal aligns with family schedules, as school breaks let children move without disrupting education. Warm weather and long days make moving easier and provide ample time for viewings. Outdoor spaces like pools, patios, and landscaping are at their best. Higher prices and sales activity reflect the premium buyers pay for peak-season convenience. Late Summer Shifts By August, changes appear. Unsold spring or early summer listings may become “stale,” and buyers begin settling as school starts. Competition eases slightly, though prices stay high, making it a transition month where patient buyers can benefit. A practical concern is moving costs, which peak in summer due to high demand. Nearly half of all household moves occur between June and August, increasing competition for movers and rental trucks alike. 5 Fall: Underrated Opportunity Season (September-November) Fall might be real estate's best-kept secret. While conventional wisdom suggests spring is the only time to transact, savvy buyers and sellers increasingly recognize fall's unique advantages. Less Competition, More Serious Players Data shows a large share of home sales occur in the fall, a detail often overlooked. With fewer competing sellers, listings stand out more, and active buyers tend to be serious and ready to act quickly. 3 October typically offers the best conditions for buyers. Data shows it has one of the lowest seller premiums of the year—about 8.8% above market value—as demand cools and competition eases. 2 Home prices also tend to dip slightly from summer highs, saving buyers thousands compared to peak-season purchases. 4 For first-time buyers especially, fall can be an ideal time to find value without the bidding wars of spring and summer. The Urgency Factor Fall brings natural urgency. Buyers aim to close before holidays and bad weather, while sellers may be motivated by taxes or avoiding a winter listing. Comfortable weather in many areas makes showings easier. Fall buyers are often more decisive, with fewer casual browsers and more serious purchasers ready to negotiate. Winter: Value Season (December-February) Winter gets a bad reputation in real estate, but for buyers with flexibility, it offers the year's best value proposition. The Numbers Don’t Lie The low-competition environment in winter provides the best opportunity for buyers to secure a discount. In January, only 24% of buyers pay above list price compared to 35% in May and June, which greatly reduces the chance of bidding wars. 4 This lower competition also means winter homes stay on the market longer, averaging 49 days versus 31 days during peak season, giving buyers more time, less pressure, and stronger negotiating power. 1 Motivated sellers become more flexible as the holidays pass. Moving companies also offer their lowest rates in winter. Winter’s Challenges Winter has trade-offs. Sellers face the lowest buyer traffic, holiday distractions, limited curb appeal from dormant landscaping, and shorter daylight for showings. Yet winter offers advantages. Less competition can help if you price aggressively and present well, and buyers who do visit are highly motivated, often relocating for jobs. Warm-climate markets like Florida and Arizona see smaller winter slowdowns, making location important. 1 Snow and ice create safety hazards, and cold weather makes moving harder. However, winter also reveals property truths, such as heating efficiency, drafty windows, and roof performance, which is all information savvy buyers use during inspections. Regional Differences: Not All Markets Are Equal Seasonal changes in the real estate market depend heavily on location, meaning a strategy that works in one city may fail in another. Markets in the Midwest and Northeast experience the most dramatic seasonal swings due to harsh winters, which push most activity into the short window between May and August. For example, daily home sales in the Midwest often more than double from January to June, with states like Illinois and Ohio seeing significant annual price swings. In contrast, Southern and Western markets enjoy stable, year-round activity because of mild weather. Places like California and most of the South see much less severe slowdowns in winter. The exception markets are those where mild winter weather attracts buyers, like Phoenix, Arizona , where the best selling time is late November. Understanding these local patterns is crucial, as local market dynamics always matter more than general national statistics. Feel free to reach out if you would like to know more about the specific seasonal patterns in your local area. Pricing Strategies by Season Pricing strategy must adapt to seasonal realities. What works in May fails in December, and vice versa. Spring and Summer Pricing During peak season, competitive pricing often attracts multiple offers. Pricing strategically 10–15% below comparable sales can spark competition and push final offers above list. Psychological pricing also matters; listing slightly under round numbers ($349,000 instead of $350,000) increases online visibility and appeals to buyer behavior. Emphasizing seasonal features such as outdoor spaces, natural light, and blooming gardens helps justify premium pricing. 3 Fall Reality Check As competition declines in fall, pricing should be more realistic. Listing slightly below spring comparables can help generate activity. Flexibility on price attracts serious year-end buyers eager to close before the holidays and bad weather. Recognizing buyer urgency allows you to price strategically rather than reactively. 2 Winter Aggression Winter requires more aggressive pricing to attract a smaller buyer pool. Pricing 5–10% below spring values can create immediate interest. Motivated sellers should focus on value over premium pricing. Buyers shopping in January aren’t bargain hunters, they’re seeking homes that justify moving during an inconvenient season. 1 Year-round best practices stay consistent: use a Comparative Market Analysis, consider current market conditions, account for unique property features that algorithms may overlook, and monitor comparable sales while staying open to adjustments. Buyer Offer Strategies by Season Spring and Summer Competition Peak season requires quick, confident action. Get pre-approved to show you’re a serious buyer and be ready to move fast. Consider offering above asking price when you find the right property, and use an escalation clause to outbid competitors up to your limit. Flexible closing dates also strengthen your offer. Some buyers write personal letters to create emotional connections. Fall and Winter Leverage Negotiating power shifts with the seasons. In fall and winter, when seller competition drops and buyer pools shrink, you gain leverage. You can more easily request seller concessions such as closing costs, home warranties, repairs, or even appliances and fixtures. Use inspection results to negotiate price reductions, as motivated sellers grow more flexible later in the season. You can also request longer inspection periods and winter move-in credits.¹ Year-Round Negotiation Fundamentals No matter the season, understanding the seller’s motivation is key. Support your offer with market data rather than emotion, and build rapport when possible. Stay calm and avoid emotional decisions. Have your agent handle offers and counteroffers to reduce tension. Know your limits and walk away from deals that don’t fit your goals. In buyer’s markets, be assertive; in seller’s markets, make offers strong and decisive. The fundamentals stay the same, though their intensity shifts with the season. BOTTOMLINE Seasonality creates opportunities and challenges, but personal circumstances should drive timing. Spring/early summer brings the highest prices and fastest sales. Winter offers buyers the best deals. Waiting for the “perfect” season doesn’t help if life demands action. Understanding your specific situation, timeline, and goals allows us to create a customized strategy that maximizes outcomes within your constraints. The best time to move is when it's right for you. Sources 1. National Association of REALTORS®. Navigating the Housing Market: A Seasonal Perspective. 2024. https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/economists-outlook/navigating-the-housing-market-a-seasonal-perspective 2. Bankrate. Best Time to Sell a House. 2024 https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/best-time-to-sell-house 3. Investopedia. How Seasons Impact Real Estate More Than You Think. 2024. https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/010717/seasons-impact-real-estate-more-you-think.asp 4. Zillow https://www.zillow.com/learn/best-time-to-buy-a-house/ 5. My Moving Journey https://mymovingjourney.com/blogs/moving-in-peak-season-vs-off-season