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By MICHELLE ABENDSCHAN Mar 6, 2024
Spring is widely recognized as the best time to buy a home, and it’s not hard to see why. The season is all about fresh starts and new beginnings, which feels just right when you’re about to make a big decision like purchasing a new home. Learn why now could be the right time to find the perfect place to call your own.
Market Reset and Increased Inventory in Spring
Spring marks the beginning of what is traditionally the busiest period in the real estate market. And after a few years of unpredictable market conditions, Money Magazine anticipates that 2024 could bring a much-needed real estate reset. With economies stabilizing and people adjusting well to post-pandemic lifestyles, the housing market is expected to reflect a more typical bustling season. This influx of listings increases your choices, giving you a better chance of finding a home that fits your exact needs and wants.
The Advantage of Clear Property Evaluations
Winter weather can hide many imperfections, from roofing issues to landscaping woes. As that weather recedes, getting a clear, unobstructed view of each property is easier. The return of milder temps also allows for a thorough inspection of the home’s exterior, including the condition of the paint, gutters, roofing and siding. As we move into the warmer months, you’ll also get a good peek at the property’s yard and landscaping – a big deal for many buyers. Seeing the full outdoor potential can really paint a picture of what’s to come, helping you dream up all the fantastic possibilities for your future garden or outdoor oasis.
Optimal Timing for Families
Buying a home in the spring is strategically sound for families with children. It aligns with the academic calendar, allowing families to relocate and settle in before the start of the new school year. This timing eases transitions for children and adults alike, providing the summer months to adjust to a new neighborhood, get all those new home tasks complete, make new friends and prepare for any school or work changes that come with moving.
Negotiation Opportunities
With the spring market’s rush of activity, there’s a unique push and pull that benefits savvy negotiators. Sellers looking to bounce back from the slower winter months are generally more open to discussions, and buyers are eager to purchase and settle in by summer. This mutual motivation can smooth the path to negotiations, potentially tipping the scales in favor of buyers looking for a good deal.
Spring Shows a Neighborhood’s Character
Milder weather not only revives trees and gardens but also community life. This uptick in activity can give potential buyers a true feel for the neighborhood’s character and lifestyle. Are the streets filled with playing children or is it a quiet, more reserved community? Is the neighborhood buzzing with local events and gatherings? Viewing a neighborhood in the spring can provide a clearer picture of daily life there. So when you visit an open house, be sure get a feel for the whole area.
While the best time to buy a home is when you’re financially and emotionally ready, March, April and May offer some unique advantages that can enhance the home-buying experience. Increased inventory, the ability to conduct thorough property evaluations, timing that suits family needs, favorable mortgage rates and negotiation potential all make spring an ideal time to take the plunge, whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced buyer looking to find the perfect setting for your next chapter.
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