This May Be The Best Time to "Fall" in Love With a Home

Until recently, the best time to buy a house had long been considered spring and summer. But we are seeing a shift in buyer competitiveness. The best time to buy is actually…now. (and not just because you can tour listings while sipping a pumpkin spice latte). 

So why is Fall the best time to buy? 

Less Competition

Like the beach after a summer holiday, the realty market clears out as the days turn crisp. Most summer buyers have already found a home, meaning a fall buyer will have way less competition for the available houses on the market.

More Leverage

Say hello to leverage. Sellers who have their homes on the market in the fall are generally people who need to sell, which can make for a more positive process. And if a home you have your eye on has been on the market all summer, you're really in the driver's seat as far as making an offer the seller can't refuse. The longer a home sits on the market, the more negotiating power the buyer wields.

The Holidays Will Be In Your Favor

Some sellers will want to move and settle down in time to host gatherings and put up their holiday lights, so they'll have to close, fast. Use this pre-holiday window to your advantage by offering to help them vacate fast if they cut you a deal.

Added Bonus: Home Improvement Bargains

Once you close on that home, you found in the fall, you may want to upgrade your appliances. Luckily, some of the biggest sales of the year, are right around the corner. That’s when you’ll find major appliances—refrigerators, stoves, washers, and dryers—are at their very cheapest, according to Consumer Reports. It's also the best time of year to buy cookware and TVs.