You don’t always get to choose when to buy a house. Life circumstances often dictate that decision for you. But the housing market changes throughout the year, so you should know what you’re in for depending on what time of year you have to buy. And if you do have a choice, timing your home purchase carefully could have some benefits.
Buying a home in the spring
Spring is the traditional home-buying season. The real estate market heats up as the winter chill fades and the warm weather returns. In fact, in some housing markets, the busy buying season begins as early as February — right after the Super Bowl.
The better weather might be one reason. But early spring is also the perfect time for parents with children to plan and initiate the months-long process of buying a house and perhaps selling an existing home, long before the new school year begins.
Realtor.com research shows that mid-April is the best time for a home seller to list their house, with the week of April 12 to 18 being the best single week to sell. This period boasts above-average buyer demand and listing prices, below-average price cutting, and faster home sales. Competition from other sellers is low too.
Buying a home in the summer
According to Realtor.com, the summer months are when the inventory of houses for sale is at its highest. Of course, there is also more buyer competition as parents look to finalize their moves before summer break concludes.
Consider the weather when purchasing a summer home. In some parts of the country, where temperatures get very hot, the physical aspects of moving may become more challenging.
Buying a home in the fall
According to Realtor.com, the best week to buy a home is mid-October, specifically the week of October 12 to 18. This period offers a combination of high inventory, low prices, and little competition from other buyers. In fact, competition is over 30% lower this week when compared to the year’s peak buying periods.
This is the best week to buy a house nationally and in many major metro areas across the U.S., including Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles, Pittsburgh, and Houston. The best time in other markets ranges between late September and early November, according to Realtor.com (but all are in the fall).
Best month to buy a house
Late September and mid-October tend to be the best weeks to buy a home in most housing markets. But when it comes to the best month to buy a house, November is your best bet, according to ATTOM Data Solutions. During this month, you’ll pay the lowest premium for properties, at just 7.3% above market value. October and December are close behind at 7.4% and 7.6%, respectively.
Keep in mind that every year is different, and market conditions are constantly in flux. If the Federal Reserve reduces the federal funds rate again, for example, mortgage rates might also decrease. This could attract more buyers, potentially increasing home prices and changing market conditions as we get further into fall.
Best time of year to buy a house FAQs
What time of year are house prices lowest?
According to Quicken Loans, home prices are at their lowest in January due to decreased inventory and demand. Keep in mind that while January might be the best month to get the lowest price on a home, you’ll typically have fewer options to choose from.
What time of year is hardest to buy a house?
The closer you get to the end of the year, the fewer homes there are for sale. This can mean fewer buyers to compete with, but it also potentially means fewer homes that fit your needs or budget. Harsh weather and the holidays can also make buying a house more challenging around this time. The summer season can also be challenging, as buyer competition can be stiff. This is usually countered by an abundance of listings, though.
Which months do houses sell the most?
Over the past 11 years, the months with the highest existing home sales were:
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2015: July and December
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2016: October
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2017: January
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2018: March
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2019: August
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2020: October
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2021: January
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2022: January
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2023: February
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2024: February
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2025: February and December
What season is best for buying a house?
Competition is the stiffest in spring and summer, which often results in higher home prices. You will usually get better deals in the fall and especially in winter when buying a house. Local market conditions can impact all the variables you should consider when making a home purchase. The best season to buy is when your personal finances are in order, you have an ample down payment, and mortgage interest rates allow you to achieve a mortgage payment that fits your household budget. With a good credit score, a helpful real estate agent, and a list of potential mortgage lenders in your pocket, you’re set.
