Is It a Good Idea to Buy a House in the Winter?

Inspecting a home during the darker, colder and damper months allows you to better determine the structural integrity of the home and effectiveness of the heating system. You can also decide if the natural light that a home affords during the winter is suitable for the essence of your lifestyle.

Even though there is typically less inventory to pick from during the winter, you can be more selective in your choices and benefit from less buyer competition. Wintertime sellers tend to be more motivated to sell in anticipation of longer market time, thus paving the way for you to negotiate a better deal.

You can usually close faster on a home purchase made during the winter. Mortgage brokers and title companies tend to be less busy, allowing them to process loans and closing documents more efficiently. This means you can settle into your new home sooner and start enjoying the benefits of homeownership without the typical delays seen in the busier spring and summer markets.

Even if moving during inclement weather is less desirable, it will be easier to hire movers during the winter months. Since moving companies are not as busy during this time of year, you may even be able to negotiate a lower moving cost.

If you’re considering purchasing a home this winter, meet with a mortgage lender to discuss your financing options to ensure you’re getting the best mortgage solution for your needs.