5 Things to Avoid Before Buying a Home

The leaves are changing, the air is getting crisp, and pumpkin spice is everywhere. For many, fall is a season of new beginnings, and it could be the perfect time for you to begin your journey to homeownership. 

While spring and summer are traditionally considered the peak seasons for buying a home, the autumn real estate market offers a unique set of advantages that often go unnoticed. Whether it is your first home or you are a seasoned homeowner, here is why fall is a great time to buy a house.

Less Competition in the Fall Real Estate Market

The spring and summer months bring a rush of buyers eager to settle in before the school year starts. By the time fall arrives, that frenzy has typically passed. With fewer buyers in the market, you'll face less competition on popular listings. You can avoid stressful bidding wars, giving you more time to consider your options and craft a more thoughtful offer.

Motivated Sellers Are Ready to Close

Sellers whose homes have been on the market since the summer are often highly motivated to sell. These homeowners may be eager to close before the holidays or before the cold winter months arrive. This urgency gives you more negotiating power. You can negotiate a better price, ask for concessions on closing costs, or secure a more flexible move-in date.

See Your Future Home in a New Light

Summer sun often masks a home's potential imperfections. Buying a home in the fall provides a realistic view of the property in various conditions, particularly during the seasonal shift from summer heat to cooler fall days. Plus, with the spring and summer plants going dormant after their growing seasons, you'll be able to see the property in its entirety, without being hidden by any growth. 

Potential Tax Benefits Before the Year Ends

Closing on your home before December 31st can offer significant financial advantages. Homeowners may be able to deduct certain expenses, such as mortgage interest and property taxes, on their income tax return for the current year. While this is not tax advice, it's a benefit worth discussing with your tax professional.
Want to learn more about the potential Tax Benefits that come with owning your own home? Click Here.

Ready to Fall in Love with a New Home this Fall?

Don't let the end of the year stop you from pursuing your homeownership dreams. The fall market is a sweet spot for homebuyers, offering a combination of less competition, motivated sellers, and a more streamlined process.

Take advantage of the fall market and get pre-approved for your mortgage today!