but the same benefits that apply to first-time home buyers looking for a starter home can apply to you in this situation. As we discussed, starter home inventory reaches its peak in the fall. “Starter homes” are defined by Trulia as any listing prices below $232,751, based on weighted averages from the 100 largest metro areas in the U.S. If you sincerely object to moving when it’s colder outside, keep in mind there are plenty of reasonably priced local moving companies that can help you make the transition as smoothly and hassle-free as possible. Sometimes, your agent might even offer to pay for these moving expenses if you’re willing to consider buying in the fall or winter.
CONDUCT YOUR OWN LOCAL RESEARCH
I’ve repeatedly been pointing out that home buyers should seriously consider taking full advantage of the fact that, generally, and in most cases, home sale prices start to decline in the fall, with winter offering the best deals. However, it’s critical that you conduct your own local research first before deciding on the best season for you to purchase your home. “It’s important to remember that real estate markets vary, so the best time to buy a home in your area may differ from overall national trends,” according to Nationwide. Talk to your agent to determine whether your target market fits the general patterns of lower home sale prices in fall and winter, or if there’s something else going on. For example, if you live somewhere in the southern states where temperatures are generally milder throughout, you might not find that much of a difference between buying in spring vs. buying in fall, or even summer vs. winter. Moreover, other
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