Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Buy a Home

Fall offers an ideal opportunity for homebuyers, combining the perfect blend of cooler weather, a beautiful outside scene (Hello, Iowa fall!), and reduced market competition. In Iowa, this season offers a unique advantage for buyers who are serious about settling in before winter arrives. With motivated sellers and changing market conditions, fall might be the best time to make your move.

• Best Month for Housing Inventory: October

• Average Housing Inventory in Iowa: 6,591

• Median Listing Price: $303,732

• Today’s 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates (as of 10.13.24):

  • Rate: 6.375%

  • APR: 6.545%

    
    

Why Fall is a Great Time to Buy a Home

1. Fewer Shoppers, Less Competition As the weather cools and the busy summer season winds down, fewer buyers are actively searching for homes. This means less competition for you, giving you more options and the ability to negotiate better terms.

   
   

2. Prices Tend to Drop Home prices typically decrease in the fall, as sellers become more motivated to close deals before the end of the year. This can result in more affordable listings and potential savings on your new home.

   
   

3. More Time to Make a Decision With fewer buyers in the market, you won’t have to feel rushed to make an offer. Fall allows you to take your time exploring properties and making thoughtful decisions without the pressure of multiple offers.

   
   

4. More Attention from Agents and Lenders Real estate agents, appraisers, and loan officers often have fewer clients to manage in the fall, allowing them to dedicate more time and attention to your home search. This means quicker responses, more flexibility, and personalized service.

   
   

5. Flexibility on Moving Dates Sellers who list their homes in the fall are often motivated to sell before the holidays or winter weather hits. This gives you more flexibility to negotiate favorable moving dates that fit your schedule.

   
   

6. Motivated Sellers Ready to Deal Homes that have been on the market since the busy summer season are more likely to have price reductions. Sellers are eager to close before the year ends, which can give you more negotiating power.

   
   

7. Avoid Multiple Offers Bidding wars are less common in the fall, as fewer buyers are in the market. You’ll have a better chance of making an offer that gets accepted without the stress of competing against multiple buyers.

   
   

8. Take Advantage of Year-End Sales After buying your home, you can furnish it for less by taking advantage of year-end sales on furniture, appliances, and home goods. Retailers often offer deep discounts during the holiday season, helping you get your new space set up affordably.

   
   

9. Pre-Holiday Move-In Moving into your new home in the fall allows you to settle in before the holidays. You can host gatherings in your new space or simply enjoy a cozy winter in your freshly purchased home.

   
   

Ready to Buy?

With lower prices, motivated sellers, and fewer competitors, fall is the perfect time to find your dream home. Contact DS Realty Group today to start your home search, and let us guide you through the process of buying the perfect home before winter sets in.