For many, the mention of fall brings images of bright colored leaves, football games, and pumpkins to mind. Going back to school brings a roar of busyness compared to the hum of summer. But have you considered the autumn season a time to buy a home? Most people say, “No way!” and choose to wait until the spring or summer, peak buying time. We don’t blame them, but that is exactly why fall is a great time to buy! Keep reading and you’ll find four reasons why we recommend buying a home in the fall.
#1 Less Competition
Like we said, buying a home is not at the forefront of most people’s minds during the fall season. Some call autumn the real estate market’s “off season” even though there can be just as much inventory as during peak seasons. Because there are fewer people out there shopping for houses, buyers are in a great position to negotiate. Sellers will be excited by any interest in their home. Your new bargaining chip will most likely be the willingness to move before the holidays. While other buyers are busy with school, work, and sporting events this fall, you can swoop in and strike a deal.
#2 Eager Sellers
May is the most popular month to list a house. With that being said, there are plenty of GORGEOUS houses out there that have been listed all summer long. Since their home has been listed for several months and the right buyer hasn’t come along yet, sellers will be more likely to accept a lower offer. It can be tiring to keep your house on the market for a long period of time, so don’t be afraid to make an offer and see what happens. A study of more than 32 million sales of single-family homes and condos found that buyers have typically gotten the best deal in the month of October. You never know which sellers are just waiting for an offer!
#3 Quick, Quality Service
We’ve already established that generally speaking there are fewer buyers shopping the real estate market during the fall. Fewer buyers means less competition. Fewer buyers also means you get to be the center of attention. Real estate agents tend to be more available and can spend more time with you. Schedule as many showings as you need, stop in and ask some questions, give them a call. Their resources are at your fingertips. The same goes for mortgage lenders and title companies. Since other people aren’t buying homes, you get a better response time from all parties involved.
#4 End of Year Sales
Finally, the cherry on top. The end of the year means things go on sale. Once you’ve purchased your new home, you’re inevitably going to be making multiple trips to the store. Furniture, paint, hardware, and appliances all go on sale sometime between September and November. Buying a home in the fall could mean paying a lower price AND taking advantage of end-of-year sales. You will be saving money left and right.
Are you interested in buying a home this fall? We can help! Contact one of our qualified realtors at Missouri Home, Farm, and Land Realty, LLC today! Give us a call at 417-777-3300 or click here to reach out on our website.